Mentor Application

Learn about our programs, upcoming dates,

and fill out the form below to apply to be an Art Buddies mentor.

We are currently recruiting mentors for our in-person program at Whittier International Elementary School this fall, our upcoming PenPal program in January, and Super Buddy substitutes to fill in for mentors as needed.

Character Creation Program - Fall 2025

Our mentors and students work together to create a one-of-a-kind character and costume based on the child’s imagination and values. Along the way, we spark imagination and build confidence. With the help and guidance from their creative mentors, kids can build a foundation of confidence in creativity.

• Locations:

  • Hall STEM Academy (Full)

    • Mondays 2:15-3:30

    • October 20 through December 15

  • Lucy Laney Elementary School (Full)

    • Tuesdays 3:40-5:00

    • September 30 through December 16

  • Bancroft Elementary School (Full)

    • Wednesdays 4:00-5:45

    • October 1 through December 17

  • Whittier International Elementary School

    (2 more mentors needed)

    • Thursdays 3:45-5:15

    • October 9 through December 18

• In-person program

• Connect one-on-one with your very own little buddy for one to two hours a week for eight to ten weeks

• Help your buddy imagine and design their own superhero character that creates change in their community

• Bring the character to life by building a costume using our huge collection of art supplies

• Celebrate your creation & participate in a costume parade, presentation, and professional photoshoot

BE A SUPER BUDDY SUB!

Super Buddy Subs come to as many days of individual programming as they can, at any school. Super Buddies are paired with a student whose weekly buddy is missing. The Program Manager will reach out to you to create your schedule.

Art Buddies PenPals

Be a Snail Mail Superhero this Winter!

Connect with a 5th grader at Whittier International Elementary School through the mail. We’ll send you all of the materials, and all you have to do is write and send your letters!

Program Details

• mid-January to mid-March

• Attend our virtual orientation on January 14th

• Send four letters, one every other week

• Students will get your letters (and an accompanying craft) and send you a postcard in response

• Join us for our final PenPal Party in mid-March (Date TBD) at Whittier International Elementary School to connect and create with your buddy in person!

• Suggested donation of $25 to cover material costs and postage. Visit artbuddies.org/donate or Venmo @ArtBuddies

Advisory Board / Community Outreach

Join Art Buddies at events in the community!! You’ll meet cool people, have a great time, and make a difference! Be an Art Buddies Ambassador!! Contact program@artbuddies.org to join the Community Outreach Board

Art Buddies believes in being integral members of the schools and communities in which we serve. We join our communities by participating in cultural and art events, creative industry events, farmers markets, programming with the Midtown Global Market, and more!

Check out our calendar page for upcoming events!

Friends who mentor together stay together! Download and print our Volunteer Flyer to post at your office, coffee shop, and more!

Be sure to subscribe to our e-news below to be notified of Art Buddies news and to keep up to date with mentor application deadlines.

Thank you for your interest in being an Art Buddies mentor!

Let’s Create! Connect! Inspire!