My work enables me to visit and study arts learning programs around the U.S. and in many other countries. I am so proud that one of the very best, CCE, is right here where I live. I confess to bragging about CCE shamelessly and widely. CCE does so many things so well, but maybe most importantly, they never lose the … Read More

CCE has done so much for my family over the years. For my children, it has built confidence and given them a sense of self-esteem. It has been a safe haven and comfortable atmosphere to stimulate the mind, body, spirit and creativity. They say it takes a village to raise a child. CCE has been that village, not only for … Read More

CCE gave my children the opportunity to express themselves through dance and drumming. It was a balancing act for my children and helped kept them grounded positively in their daily lives. CCE is/was an extended family that not only taught dance and drumming but structure and positive values as well. Lastly, the girls would always see the Center for Creative … Read More

I was an active member of POOK for many years. I remember my first class was when I was only 11 years old. I learned all the different sounds on the djembe. The first song Ev taught me was Buru, which was easy, but I remember how proud I was when I got it down. Remembering my first few years … Read More

I went to CCE because I wanted to try out for their dance team. My goal was to make the team and have a place where I could show my talent but little did I know I would get much more than that. Everyone who’s affiliated with CCE took me in as if I was their son, brother or cousin … Read More

My name is Zakiyah Williams. I am 23 years old and a Master of Public Health working as a Family Planning Counselor at a community health center. I am an alumni from the Center of Creative Education. I first met Drew, Lisa and the crew back in 2003. It was in 2004 when I officially became a member of the … Read More

I remember being nervous and terrified to be in the front line and dance with the bright lights shining down on me. Then gradually I remember moving closer and closer to the front of the line. I ended up being fearless, conquering the routine and wanting too go back on stage again when we were finished because I then yearned … Read More

Our daughter Allie danced with CCE for a decade and the positive effects on her being part of this community are quite profound. Her sense of self and empowerment and the ability to be disciplined and self motivated are aspects that will always inform the special, clear and self assured person that she is. As parents we are so thankful … Read More

Having CCE in my life for such a long time has shown me the importance of having a creative outlet. When I started at 8 years old I didn’t exactly realize this, but creative education / thought is a discipline that is almost entirely missing from public education in the U.S. Just to name a few skills that I attribute … Read More