Artists
Story Stitchers partners with a talented collective of local professional artists who guide, mentor, and collaborate with youth throughout all of our programs. These artists represent a wide range of disciplines—including music, spoken word, dance, theater, visual art, and media production—and bring years of experience as performers, educators, and community leaders.
More than instructors, they are mentors and role models who help young people build creative skills, express their voices, and use art as a tool for healing and social change. By working side-by-side with professionals, youth gain firsthand insight into the creative process, develop professional networks, and see the power of art to make a real impact in their communities.
Youth Council
Story Stitchers serves youth and young adults ages 16–25 from across the St. Louis region, with a focus on those living in economically challenged and high-crime neighborhoods. Many of our participants face barriers such as exposure to violence, limited access to safe creative spaces, and a lack of positive mentorship opportunities.
Through our programs, these young people find community, purpose, and a platform to share their voices. They are poets, musicians, dancers, storytellers, and leaders—using art to process their experiences, advocate for change, and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities. Story Stitchers helps them transform creativity into confidence, and challenges into opportunities for growth and impact.