Affirming
the identities
of youth of color
and supporting their well-being
through literacy, arts education,
and mentorship.
LitiArts affirms youth identities and supports their well-being through equitable and accessible literacy and arts education.
LitiArts combines literacy and the arts to strengthen students’ literacy skills, affirm their identities, and support their well-being.
The college & career preparation process is not a one-size-fits-all approach. LitiArts provides 1-on-1 mentorship to first-generation and high school juniors of color as they prepare for and transition to college.
We host an annual gala and fundraiser with students, families, community members, and donors.
COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES
Colleges and Universities Our Fellows Have Been Accepted To the following:
Academic
100% of students gained acceptance into their preferred university/college programs.
Identity
85% of students felt more confident about transitioning into their freshman year of college.
Well-being
80% of students showed growth in their ability to self-assess their mental wellbeing.
Funding
100% of students received funding in the form of a scholarship or grant from at least 1 college.
"LitiArts provided me with so much support during the college application process and helped me showcase my efforts and talents effectively on my college applications. My mentor also helped me answer questions about the college process."
- Faith O., University of Texas at Austin, C/O 2027
"My LitiArts mentor helped me during my freshman year with literally everything. They directed me to campus resources and connected me with a Resident Physician at George Washington University Hospital. The doctor provided me with pre-med resources and gave me tips in preparation for med school."
- Emani K., Michigan State University, C/O 2026
"I was very anxious because I felt behind with my application deadlines, so we did a visualization activity. I felt less anxious and more confident about moving forward with my applications. LitiArts provided less stress and reminded me to take everything in small steps."
- Aniyah R., Grand Valley State University, C/O 2027
In the Media: Our Founder,
Dr. Lakeya Afolalu,
Dr. Lakeya Afolalu gave a talk titled 'Speaking Through the Arts,' discussing the power of the arts for youth who often become quiet in U.S. schools because their language 'sounds different' from their peers.
In this interview, Dr. Lakeya Afolalu discusses how literacy extends beyond reading and writing, highlighting its impact on creativity, identity, and the well-being of youth.
Dr. Lakeya Afolalu, featured in The Seattle Times, challenges the science of reading as it is applied to close literacy gaps for children of color. Her work emphasizes the need for more culturally responsive approaches to truly support and empower diverse learners.
LitiArts is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3)
organization, officially recognized by the IRS as a public charitable organization. Donations are tax-deductible.
Mailing Address: 1201 2nd Avenue, Suite 900, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone:
832-479-9159
Email: info@litiarts.org
EIN:
92-0866379