Local business ARTI-Culture on Tuesday is set to receive the Blue Ribbon Award from the Child Abuse Prevention Council of San Benito County.
The Child Abuse Prevention Council is an entity of the Health and Human Services Agency for the county. The organization is comprised of 12 members, a chair, second chair and secretary from various local groups or agencies.
For Rolan Resendiz, who co-owns ARTI-Culture with his partner Joel Esqueda, he believes the award has to do with the access ARTI-Culture gives to children from all backgrounds.
“Yes, we do these creative events,” said Resendiz, referring to paint parties and themed events involving artwork. “We bring people together. But we give back at the same time. We have our art studio and we have an art show.”
When it comes to arts access in the studio, ARTI-Culture has a pay-what-you-can-afford approach.
“Those that can afford to pay, should pay,” he said. “Those that can’t, they don’t.”
“Our whole thing is, we want everybody to have access to art,” he went on. “We’re real passionate. Kids have access to these positive forms of expression and creativity—then it gives them better coping skills in life.”
He said it could keep some youths from getting in trouble otherwise.
“For us to open our doors, free of cost if need be, then the parents don’t have to stress as much,” Resendiz said.
The Blue Ribbon Award comes on the heels of ARTI-Culture making it to the finals for the regional Startup Challenge at California State University Monterey Bay.
Photos Courtesy of ARTI-Culture:
ARTI-Culture to receive Blue Ribbon Award
