Cornerstone Center for the Arts begins its 12-week fall programming this week through Dec. 3, with classes such as basket weaving, paper making and dancing.
In its first year, Cornerstone Center for the Arts provided classes involving art, music, dance and theater restricted to kindergartners through fifth-graders.
During the past three years, the center has outreached its programs to people of all ages.
"We kept getting calls from people around the community asking for something like this program; there was a hunger for art in their lives. We listened to what the community wanted and needed and came up with answers for what they'd like," Pam Nicholas, director of education for Cornerstone Center for the Arts, said.
While the cost of these classes varies, the average is $5 per class or $60 per semester. For those unable to pay the fee, financial aid is offered. The classes range from one hour to one and one-half hours long from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.
There are over 87 volunteers who help with the teaching and experience of these classes. Dr. Kristen Turner, Director of String Education at Ball State, and Elise Roderer, a senior majoring in public relations and political science, contribute to the program in their own ways.
"I actually had a grant already established for a program called the Ball State University Project." Turner said. "Cornerstone actually called me and wanted to have a partnership between my project and theirs and enabled us to get local funding as well."
With the collaboration set, Turner said since she was director of String Education that she wanted an opportunity for her students who wanted to become teachers to get involved with the children as a method of pre-teaching.
Turner instructs the beginning strings, prep orchestra and private lessons for Cornerstone's fall programming.
The involvement of Roderer came through her sorority.
As a public relations major, she also got involved with the communication aspect of the program and uses this as an internship for school.
"These classes are meant to provide an environment in order [for people] to express themselves. We do not give grades or tests. [We believe] art is never wrong it's a matter of personal expression," Nicholas said.
Classes are also given during the spring and summer for those unable to attend during the fall.
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