Prodigy is an innovative performing arts program that is a collaboration of the UACDC, University of South Florida School of Social Work, and Bay Area Youth Services. In Prodigy, life lessons emerge from carefully planned cultural arts activities, such as painting, dance and music. Such expression gives instructors common ground on which to connect with students on a variety of relevant issues. The development of artistic skills lead to better problem solving, while the arts teaches students to overcome challenges through the process of learning and creation. For instance, one Prodigy student took national honors in an international social purpose photography program, while many participated in an “Empty Bowls” project where student-created pottery was auctioned to a receptive audience during a charity event to benefit the homeless. Over 1,500 children and their families from the community as well as youth referred to the program by the juvenile justice system participate in Prodigy each year.

Click here to view recent artwork by the Prodigy students.