About
About Us
Arte Youth Program partners with learning centers, schools and community resource centers to bring creative learning opportunities to children and their families. Through art healing workshops, and programs that introduce S.T.E.A.M education, we create hands-on environments where the youth can explore imagination, team building skills, and discovery. We believe creativity flourishes when children feel supported. That’s why we provide essential resources (for example backpacks, school supplies, art materials, and meals alongside our programs.) By nurturing creativity and curiosity, Arte Youth Program empowers youth to discover their potential and see that there are limitless pathways to success.
What We Do
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Art based wellness workshops
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S.T.E.A.M learning experiences
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Essential supplies for students
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Community partnerships
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Social-emotional learning through creative expression
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International outreach programs
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Cultural arts programming celebrating diverse heritages
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Career pathway exposure in arts and technology
Founder and President
Reena Tolentino is a multidisciplinary artist, philanthropist, and the President and Founder of Arte Youth Program, a foundation empowering youth through art healing initiatives and STEAM education.
Rooted in her Filipino heritage and shaped by the resilience of her immigrant upbringing, Reena brings a rare combination of creative vision and mission-driven leadership to everything she builds. She holds a B.A. in Communication Studies and has been honored with the 2014 Young Ambassador of Goodwill Award, the 2017 Woman of Worth Award, and the 2018 Astronaut of the Year Award from the Mars-Moon Astronautics Academy & Research Science.
In 2022, Reena made history as the first Pacific Islander contemporary painter invited to lecture at Cambridge University on Analog Space Missions, where she introduced the concept of Astro-Wellness — bridging art, science, and mental health. Her experience commanding Analog Astronaut Missions reflects the same disciplined leadership she brings to AYP.
As a producer and curator of her own art exhibitions, Reena has secured brand sponsorships and built global partnerships that fuel immersive, community driven experiences, which is the same entrepreneurial spirit she brings to growing AYP's reach into the Philippines.
"Aim higher than the stars and keep your eyes to the galaxy."
Meet AYP Team Members
VP of Operations
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Treasurer
Secretary
Advisor, Legal & Compliance
FAQ
1. Where is Arte Youth Program based and where do you operate?
AYP is registered in the United States. We have hosted programs and activations in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Nottingham (England), and most recently in Subic, Philippines with continued international expansion underway.
2. What does S.T.E.A.M. stand for and why does AYP incorporate it?
S.T.E.A.M. stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. AYP places Art at the center of this framework because creativity is the bridge that makes all other disciplines accessible and exciting. Our programs integrate hands-on artistic experiences with STEAM concepts to develop critical thinkers, innovators, and compassionate leaders.
3. How is AYP different from other youth arts organizations?
AYP sits at the intersection of art, science, and healing. Our programming goes beyond traditional art instruction, we combine arts-based wellness, STEAM education, cultural celebration, and community empowerment into one cohesive mission. With international reach, NASA adjacent partnerships, and a founder who has lectured at Cambridge University on Astro-Wellness, AYP brings a uniquely visionary approach to youth education.
4. What age groups do you serve?
Our programs are designed primarily for school-age children, typically between the ages of 4 through 18. We also welcome family participation, believing that creativity shared between generations strengthens communities.
5. What happens at an AYP arts-based wellness workshop?
Our workshops are interactive, inclusive, and joyful. Facilitated by artists and educators, participants explore self-expression through painting, mixed media, and collaborative art-making. Each session is designed to nurture emotional well-being, build confidence, and ignite a love of learning — all in a safe and supportive environment.
6. How many children has AYP served so far?
Since our founding in 2023, AYP has directly served hundreds of children across the United States and the Philippines through workshops, activations, and community events, including 150 children at our North Hollywood family workshop and 134 students during our Philippines service mission and 85 children at STEAM conventions and Virtual panels for Astronaut education. We are growing every year.
7. How can I volunteer with Arte Youth Program?
We welcome volunteers who are passionate about art, education, and community. Whether you are an artist, educator, cyber security leader, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, there is a place for you at AYP. Reach out to us to learn about current opportunities.
8. How can my business become a sponsor?
Corporate sponsors play a vital role in bringing AYP's programs to life. In exchange for your support, we offer brand visibility at events, recognition across our digital platforms, and the opportunity to align your company with a meaningful, globally recognized mission. Email us to request our sponsorship deck.
9. How is my donation used?
Every dollar donated to AYP goes toward funding our programs, purchasing essential supplies for students, supporting our international outreach, and sustaining the operations that keep our mission moving forward. We are committed to maximizing the direct impact of every contribution.
10. How can I attend or sponsor an AYP event?
Our events are open to the community and range from intimate art workshops to gala fundraisers. Follow us on Instagram at @arteyouthprogram and visit our website for upcoming event announcements. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact us.
11. Can I feature AYP in a media story or documentary?
We welcome media coverage and storytelling that amplifies our mission. AYP is currently developing a documentary project and is open to media collaborations. Please reach out for press inquiries.
12. Does AYP collaborate with schools and community centers?
Yes, building relationships with schools and community resource centers is at the heart of what we do. We work with public schools, after-school programs, and community organizations both domestically and internationally to bring our programming to as many children as possible