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Download a PDF file (about 1MB in size) of our case for a new home for Destiny Arts.

For over 20 years Destiny has been giving inspiration —showing kids how to imagine new visions, showing them alternative futures—and we have moved the Center 3 times.

We have shown consistently that our youth can learn a better way if we give them the place to learn and expose them to the right teachers and programs. Each time we move we waste valuable resources that could go towards our young people. And each time we move we lose touch with kids we know really need us.

We could do so much more in a stable location that’s built with our programs in mind: – We could increase the dance and martial arts classes we offer and serve so many more young people. – We could become an established community center where our young people know they can always find us. – And we could do so much more of our most important work: teaching youth how to prevent violence and resolve conflict peacefully.

With a stable home, Destiny will be able to serve many more young people in addition to our over 1,000 current students. Through classes, performances, and our after-school programs, we will be able to impact the lives of thousands more.

Over the last several years we have experienced an incredible increase in both the size of and demand for our programs.
• Our outreach program “Project DESTINY” grew from 16 to 24 sites, serving over 700 youth.
• We expanded our preschool program for preschoolers (ages 3 to 6) “Teddy Bears Program” to serve 12 Oakland preschools.
• Destiny Arts Center teaching staff grew from 18 to 35+
• Our youth performance company grew in outreach income from $2,100 to $6,670 in a single year, creating greater awareness, enthusiasm and participation for our programs.
• Each year the numbers of youth and adults that attend Destiny workshops, performances and events grows as does the demand for our programs.

Our kids deserve the best. They deserve a home away from home like Destiny. With your generous support we can secure and stabilize Destiny Arts Center in a long-term home of its own.

What we do with your gift

Destiny has outgrown its current location. Our lease expires in 2010 and after 20 years, moving from location to location—we want to establish a permanent home.

We have launched a three-year funding campaign to solidify and expand our impact on our community.

A significant portion of the funds raised will be applied towards establishing a permanent home for the Destiny Arts Center. The majority of funds will go to the building itself—financing and design costs, campaign expenses and larger reserves to support increased operating costs.

We are looking for a place to own or to secure with a long term lease.

Destiny’s ideal home will be:
• In the heart of the community we serve
• Designed for our dance and martial arts programs
• A space for performances
• Open to the community
• Easy to get to on public transportation
• Headquarters for our growing staff

Destiny’s new home represents much more than a safe space, more than a performing arts center, more than a martial arts school, and more than a youth development center. When Destiny secures a permanent home in Oakland—East Bay Youth will have a safe place to explore who they are for years to come.

The Plan

The facilities plan includes the following minimum space requirements:
• 7,000 total sq. feet of space to include:
• Three dance/martial arts studios
• Changing area
• Homework area
• Office space, meeting room
• Entry space, Lobby
• Meal room
The $800,000 will be used for expanded facilities, expanded programming and increased reserves to support greater operating costs,
• $300,000 (38%) for the build-out, includes financing and design costs
• $120,000 (15%) expanded programming costs
• $340,000 (42%) increased operational reserves to support higher costs
• 5%, or less for campaign expenses (consultant, collateral, preliminary designs, staff costs, and other related costs)

Destiny has always been a space where young people find home away from home—a refuge to support their accomplishments and help them find ways through their challenges. With your help we will continue to provide that home. Please consider investing in our youth and supporting us.

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