In the Summer of 2022, WEA partnered with the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) to fund a five-day multidisciplinary summer arts camp for Indigenous Youth in our region. Seven Indigenous artists delivered art sessions and implemented activities to twelve Indigenous youth in Grades 7-12 to develop a deeper understanding of their own artistic abilities and leadership potential.  Camp attendees explored their authentic personal and intrapersonal connections and the importance of Indigenous Arts.

In the Summer of 2019, WEA partnered with Melissa Miner of the Downtown Music Initiative to deliver 7 weeks of free music lessons in piano, violin, and guitar to 20 youth in Windsor’s core. At the end of the 7 weeks, a music recital was held at Central United Church on Ouellette Avenue.

From 2013 to 2018, CTO was an interdisciplinary arts program for teens aged 14-19, who live with challenging social, emotional, financial, physical or mental health circumstances, and who tend to be under served due to their life situations. This arts-based program housed in the Jackman Dramatic Art Centre at the University of Windsor, and delivered by the School of Dramatic Art (SODA) provided youth with a welcoming space and place for exploration and self-development. Through various models of engagement that focus on leadership training, mentorship, theatre, and other arts related activities, the CTO program offered a platform for youth to speak up about “what is not being said in their lives, to advocate for themselves and to practice the creative and leadership skills introduced throughout the program.” The first edition of CTO was able to transform the lives of dozens of youth. Its tremendous success was due to the strength and commitment of the entire Windsor-Essex community.