November 2, 2025 • 31 mins
11-2-25 El Paso Public Forum
.
Segment 1: National Veteran's Outreach Programs (NVOP) in El Paso.
.
Amber Banda interviews Ruben Marquez, Director of Client Services in El Paso, and Angelica Castillo, Case Manager in El Paso for the National Veteran's Outreach Programs. The NVOP helps veterans (and even non-veterans) who are facing risk of homelessness or food insecurity. Listen to learn what resources they have available to veterans, including help with job placement, housing, and more.
.
They are having a Job and Self Improvement Fair at Basset Center Nov 10th from 10-4. Various organizations will be there to cater to the veteran community, including various departments from the VA and local businesses who are hiring. There will also be an unveiling of a mural inside Bassett Place Mall, which has been designated a Purple Heart Mall. There will be music, food, and more including awards presented to members of different non-profits who have gone above and beyond for the military and veteran community.
.
For more info go to https://agif-nvop.org/
Click on the event tab.
You can also call 915-774-0525 for veteran resource assistance.
_______________________________________________________________________________
11-2-25 El Paso Public Forum
Segment 2: Creative Kids El Paso
.
Amber Banda interviews Andrea Gates-Ingle, Executive Director and Co-Founder, and Stephen Ingle, Co-Founder and Creative Director for Creative Kids, El Paso. Creative Kids El Paso is a nationally recognized non-profit in El Paso that started when 2 young college students learned that art can help children with certain disabilities better communicate.
.
Andrea and Stephen saw the need for this type of art "therapy" and have evolved it into projects for youth all over the city; from kids in juvie to kids who are at-risk or in low-income areas and would not otherwise be exposed to art and it's various forms. Their art has been displayed all over the city, from La Nube to the Locomotives and in their OLO gallery.
.
For more information, follow them on social media and visit creativekidsart.org
NEW EPISODES EVERY SUNDAY AT 8AM! Follow Amber Banda, 96.3 KHEY Country, Power 102.1 or Sunny 99.9 on Instagram and/or Facebook for pictures of our guests and leave a comment. Be a part of the good going on in our community!
.
Segment 1: National Veteran's Outreach Programs (NVOP) in El Paso.
.
Amber Banda interviews Ruben Marquez, Director of Client Services in El Paso, and Angelica Castillo, Case Manager in El Paso for the National Veteran's Outreach Programs. The NVOP helps veterans (and even non-veterans) who are facing risk of homelessness or food insecurity. Listen to learn what resources they have available to veterans, including help with job placement, housing, and more.
.
They are having a Job and Self Improvement Fair at Basset Center Nov 10th from 10-4. Various organizations will be there to cater to the veteran community, including various departments from the VA and local businesses who are hiring. There will also be an unveiling of a mural inside Bassett Place Mall, which has been designated a Purple Heart Mall. There will be music, food, and more including awards presented to members of different non-profits who have gone above and beyond for the military and veteran community.
.
For more info go to https://agif-nvop.org/
Click on the event tab.
You can also call 915-774-0525 for veteran resource assistance.
_______________________________________________________________________________
11-2-25 El Paso Public Forum
Segment 2: Creative Kids El Paso
.
Amber Banda interviews Andrea Gates-Ingle, Executive Director and Co-Founder, and Stephen Ingle, Co-Founder and Creative Director for Creative Kids, El Paso. Creative Kids El Paso is a nationally recognized non-profit in El Paso that started when 2 young college students learned that art can help children with certain disabilities better communicate.
.
Andrea and Stephen saw the need for this type of art "therapy" and have evolved it into projects for youth all over the city; from kids in juvie to kids who are at-risk or in low-income areas and would not otherwise be exposed to art and it's various forms. Their art has been displayed all over the city, from La Nube to the Locomotives and in their OLO gallery.
.
For more information, follow them on social media and visit creativekidsart.org
NEW EPISODES EVERY SUNDAY AT 8AM! Follow Amber Banda, 96.3 KHEY Country, Power 102.1 or Sunny 99.9 on Instagram and/or Facebook for pictures of our guests and leave a comment. Be a part of the good going on in our community!
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Welcome to ol Paso Public Forum, a weekly half hour
public affairs presentation of iHeartRadio El Paso for over twenty years,
featuring local news and interviews of interest to our listeners
in West Texas and southern New Mexica. All views and
opinions expressed on this program are those of the host
and guest, and not necessarily those of iHeartRadio Management and
now El Paso Public Forum.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Welcome back to the al Paso Public Forum. I'm your host,
Amber Banda, and today we have two people here to
talk about the National Veterans Outreach Program, a part of
the American GI Forum. We have Rubin Marcs, director of
Client Services for al Paso National Veterans Outreach Program. Ruben,
thank you for talking with us today.
Speaker 3 (00:42):
Thank you for having us. Thank you so much.
Speaker 2 (00:43):
And if I say the name wrong, because I know
there's certain ways to say the names, please correct me.
Speaker 4 (00:47):
Let me know if at any time, okay.
Speaker 2 (00:49):
And we also have Anhelica Castillo, case manager for National
Veterans Outreach programs here in al Paso, and Helica thank.
Speaker 4 (00:57):
You for talking with us today.
Speaker 5 (00:58):
Thank you Amber.
Speaker 2 (00:59):
Of course, so this is a brand new organization that
I was not familiar with National Veterans Outreach Program, Ruben,
I'm going to defer to you right here. You were
explaining a little bit about it being a part of
the American GI Forum. Can you explain the relationship between
the two, and then we'll go into what this organization
(01:19):
does for the veterans and non veterans in our community.
Speaker 3 (01:22):
Sure, thank you for the question. Thank you all passal
for hostiness as well. But the National Veterans Outreach Program
was established in nineteen seventy two by Carlos Martinez, he's
our former CEO. But it was really designed to help
underserve veterans have access to veterans services. So the GI
(01:44):
Forum is actually our advocates in both Austin and Washington,
DC that fight for veterans' rights and help them achieve
more on finding claims or receiving services from the federal government.
Speaker 4 (01:58):
So it's more the political side exactly. Okay, yeah, okay.
Speaker 2 (02:01):
And the National Veterans Outreach Program here in our pass.
So what does it do for the veterans and like
you said earlier, non veterans and all passle.
Speaker 3 (02:09):
Right, So here in our pass. So we receive a
VA grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs, which allows
us to help the underserved veterans in our community that
are low income to kind of bridge the gap between
them finding themselves either homeless or at immin at risk
(02:29):
of becoming homeless. So we provide a lot of the
financial assistance that helps them either find a new housing,
pay some utilities. Also we reach out and connect them
to other services in the community as well, for legal services,
childcare services, connecting with SNAP or food stamps, connecting them
(02:54):
with other sources that will increase their income. And we
do this both for veterans and the regular homeless that
are out there. So we work very closely with the
community as far as connecting with them and having partnerships
built with them where if somebody is facing homelessness, whether
they're a veteran or not, that they have the employment
(03:14):
services available to them and then have these resources that
the VA has made available to them so they can
get back on their feet. It's a short term program,
it's not really designed for long term use, maybe seven
eight months long, but doors open when they comply and
they stay within the metrics of what we want to
(03:35):
accomplish with them, getting them to a better place. So
it kind of opens the door for them to get
a little bit longer assistance and then we work with
a VA as well for the long term assistance.
Speaker 2 (03:44):
Oh okay, so there is a long term plan there
for resource for them as well. And I think right now,
especially as of the airing of the show, with everything
going on with the government shutdown and people not receiving
their benefits, especially the SNAP benefits, so you're going to be.
Speaker 4 (03:56):
A very valuable resource. So I hope this can help someone.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
And and Helka being the case manager, can you tell
us maybe if someone wanted to apply for these benefits, like,
how would that how would.
Speaker 4 (04:09):
That work, how would that look.
Speaker 5 (04:10):
So normally, when we have a client that needs services
like getting connected to the v A or Social Security
or SNAP benefits of that nature, we also refer them
to we have what we call a healthcare navigator and
he is our go between for those kind of services.
On my end, with my priority with the clients that
were the ability to go and program with as they
(04:33):
commit the we are I'm from Andria, whether it's being
bottom and h G training can work here.
Speaker 4 (04:39):
Localizations like ducically a lot of veterany.
Speaker 5 (04:44):
Veteran with they know.
Speaker 3 (04:48):
I have somebody's homeless, who's who's indicating he was a veteran,
he served in the military. Uh, so they send us
referrals throughout the community. There's a lot of shelters out
in our.
Speaker 4 (04:58):
So maybe it works like the Opportunities Center or something
like that.
Speaker 3 (05:00):
Say, through the Opportunity Center, they connect us with veterans
and then we do an intake with them and we
get qualified for our services. And then once they're approof
for services, we still are assisting them with all the
different services that we provide in the community. So it's
really a win win for everybody. Yeah, you know what
I mean. And it's like you said, right now, it's
a scary time because of the shortage of funding that's
(05:23):
available because of the shutdown, but we won't stop. We're
going to continue trying to find any resource out in
the community, food pantries, anything we can to help connect
the veteran or somebody who's not a veteran to those
services and help them.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
So. And if someone wanted more information, is it safe
to send them to the website agif joshnvop dot org.
Speaker 3 (05:45):
Yes for more information, that's a perfect website for them.
To go to, but here locally. If they don't mind
calling nine to one five not seven seven four zero
five two five, they can call our office directly and
will connect them to either setting them up from an
appointment or if we identify that they need an additional
(06:06):
service throughout the community, we refer them out through the community.
And we're really good at knowing the different partners that
are out there that can assist in different areas. Sometimes
we can assist everybody, but we will connect them to
somebody who can help them.
Speaker 2 (06:20):
That's fantastic. And in case you missed that phone number,
I'll repeat it, but you can also find that phone
number listed in the Facebook and Instagram for Power two
point one Sunday ninety nine point nine ninety six point
three k Country, as well as in the description of
this podcast. If you're listening on the Free iHeart app
so nine one five seven seven four zero five two five,
(06:41):
and if you're just tuning in, we have Rubin Marquez,
director of Client Services for Alpaso National Veterans Outreach program
and Angelica Castile, case manager for the National Veterans Outreach Programs,
again a part of the American GI Forum. Now you
have a really cool event, a really large event that
(07:02):
is coming up November tenth at Bassett Place from.
Speaker 4 (07:07):
Ten to four.
Speaker 2 (07:08):
Ruben, would you like to start talking first about what
this event is and who it's for and everything that's
going to happen, I'll ask both of you.
Speaker 3 (07:14):
Yeah, thank you so much for that. You know what,
we were blessed to have a Basket Place approach us
about having a bigger imprint in the community with four
Bliss active duty military and veterans, and they allowed us
to have a kosk at Basket Place which we could
put community information out there. So whenever you need any
(07:36):
type of community information, there is an actual kiosk at
Basket Place where you can put that information and get
the word out to the community on any event that
you might be having or any information that is vital
to the community. So it started off with that. They
asked us if we would put together a car show,
well not not a car show, but a job fare
(07:56):
and a resource fair, and we said yes, of course,
we would love to do this, and we went out
into the mall, we connected with some of our.
Speaker 5 (08:06):
Target David Busters calls.
Speaker 3 (08:11):
Even I think it was Marshalls and Marshall's Burnington, all
the all the vendors that are around Bassett Center and
they all wanted to support the event. Uh, it got roling.
Congressman Gonzande's office decided to nominate Bassett Mall as a
Purple Heart destination. So again people just come out of
(08:33):
the woodwork to try to assist us and help us.
It's so beautiful. Thank you as well for this opportunity.
And we have mister Michael Fieddro who's doing a mural feral.
Speaker 5 (08:45):
It's a veterans dedication.
Speaker 4 (08:47):
Where's that going to be at.
Speaker 5 (08:48):
It's going to be at the entrance of the mall
Burlington and Costco. There is an entrance for Busters there mall,
so it's going to be placed up on the wall
that area. So there's going to be a purple Heart
designation at the top and usually a very beautiful mural
that he's going to be. That's a treat for veterans.
(09:10):
So it's where we're very fortunate. He's a local muralist.
We were connected with him through some other local artists
and he just you know, took the call and said, yeah,
I'll do it.
Speaker 4 (09:22):
Do you guys know what it's going to be? It
or is it going to be like an oh you do,
it's amazing.
Speaker 3 (09:27):
Yeah, it's you have to go see this because you
know what it's it's going to hit al Passle really
hard in the heart. But you know what, there's so
many veterans in al Passle that have received this, this
distinction of receiving the purple Heart. So it's home about
giving back to them. Eventually, we would like to start
putting names up on that wall that is of all
(09:49):
the individuals who have received a purple Heart in our community.
I know my brother is a Vietnam veteran. He received
a purple heart. Uh, So this means so much, not
just to us that that served veteran community, but this
way to keep us connected. Our Passo is the veterans
capital of the USA. We're you know, we're very careful
(10:10):
for the support we get from the county and the
city with veteran programs. So this is just another way
for us to give back to our community and connect
people with.
Speaker 2 (10:19):
In addition to the mural from Michael Vietro at this event,
because it's going to be a job there and a
self improvement fair, you're accepting donations proceeds. What else is
going to be at this event, and how can people
support it when they attend?
Speaker 3 (10:33):
Mainly by attending the event, because you know what, everybody
who is going who has requested a table at the
event is either providing a community service or a resource
to the community. But also employers. We know that it's
a holiday season. Money is tight if you need a
part time job. I mean, hopefully we still need more employers.
(10:53):
If there's any employers that are hiring this, I hope
they hear this so they can get in contact with us.
But we have one hundred tables already reserved, so it's
going to be a huge event. So you know, this
is this is our way to give back to the community.
And then, like Ahilico is saying, all the support that
we've been getting through outside organizations that want to sponsor
(11:15):
or be part of it has made a huge difference.
And so it's going to turn out to be a really,
really nice event for all passwords to enjoy.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
It sounds like it's shaping up to be a really
excellent event. I've been to events at Bassett and they're
always willing to help the community, and so again you're
going to take it, says here all donations and proceeds
help the MVOP assist with support. Service needs to include
food donations and assistance to avoid homelessness. So can people
take food to donate to the event or is it
more monetary?
Speaker 3 (11:44):
Yeah, okay, we're trying to get monetary donations for it.
We we work with the Outsladge, which is another veteran
organization in the community, and they help us provide meals
for veterans during the holiday season and also during Christmas.
So we wanted to be able to support them and
and be able to donate money to them as well.
(12:04):
But we have a lot of support services that our
grants don't cover.
Speaker 2 (12:08):
UH.
Speaker 3 (12:08):
Sometimes you could have a veteran coming through all Passo,
their car breaks down, they don't have nobody to call.
Speaker 6 (12:14):
UH.
Speaker 3 (12:15):
An organization like ours might be able to put them
in a motel or something, you know, during that carrier
through here. Or sometimes we just find veterans that are
sleeping literally outside that we're trying to get into our program,
and during the period that we're waiting for it to
get approved, we can put them in a motel or
help them with food. UH. It will get them vouchers
(12:37):
for for target or other places Walmart where they can
go get some food and stuff like that. So really
that's the purpose of the community for.
Speaker 5 (12:46):
Maybe a combations they've worked, like you said, two hands
community see amazing. So the day or anything we have
to be entertained, has a DJ service and provide some
music for us.
Speaker 4 (13:05):
There's line dancing. I'm there, yes, okay, I love line dancing.
Speaker 3 (13:12):
But yeah, we do have to DJs. But to go
back to the Community service awards, I'll pass with such
a humble community. You know what we were a lot
of times we asked the organizations, hey, nominate somebody from
your organization that you would like to like to you know,
focus or showcase and the award ceremony. And you know
(13:33):
it's hard for people to want to say, hey, look
I do this for the homeless.
Speaker 4 (13:37):
I do this for us.
Speaker 3 (13:38):
Yeah, but it's not about that. It's what we wanted
to do is thank those individuals that, out of their
heart go always that extra mile to help others and
know that somebody is watching, somebody is noticing what you're doing.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
So again, the National Veterans Outreach Program Job Fair and
Self Improvement Fair November tenth, the day before Veterans Day
from ten am to four pm. The VA will be
out there with different resources. There's going to be a
lot out there to help al Paso honor our veterans.
(14:12):
Welcome back to the al Paso Public Forum. I am
your host Amber Banda, and today we have Andrea Gates Ingle.
She is the executive director and co founder for Creative Kids.
Speaker 4 (14:24):
Andrea, thank you for talking with us today.
Speaker 7 (14:26):
Thank you for having us son.
Speaker 4 (14:27):
Of course.
Speaker 2 (14:28):
And we also have Stephen Ingle, co founder and creative
director for Creative Kids.
Speaker 4 (14:33):
Stephen, thank you for talking with us today. Thanks of course.
So Creative Kids.
Speaker 2 (14:38):
Tell me, Andrea, how long has this organization been in Alpaso.
Speaker 7 (14:42):
Yes, So Creative Kids just celebrated at the twenty fifth anniversary.
We started back in nineteen ninety nine. We were two
young college students at Utah. I was studying special education.
Stephen was in the arts and I was doing my blocks,
my teaching block for special education. In kind of THEO,
(15:02):
I had invited him while I was doing my student
teaching to come do some artwork with my special needs kids.
He came and it was magic that I had never
seen with my kids. And so these two young, crazy
college students decided to start a nonprofit and we had
no idea.
Speaker 4 (15:19):
How to do that, but we did. That's amazing.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
So, Andrew, I'm going to ask you first, and Steve,
I'm gonna ask you the same question.
Speaker 3 (15:25):
So, you know, you.
Speaker 2 (15:26):
Said that you were working with special ed kids. You came,
you saw the art, you know, you had them do artwork. Now,
what did you see that sparked this? Hey, I think
that this could really be something to help youth.
Speaker 5 (15:38):
Yeah.
Speaker 7 (15:39):
I just the kids I was working with, a lot
of them were nonverbal and they became verbal and we're
asking for different colors and just it was like night
and day and I just we couldn't let something like
this go by, and we just said we have to
help more kids like this, and so that's how we
got started.
Speaker 4 (15:56):
I love that.
Speaker 2 (15:56):
And Steven, what what did you see, like, Hey, this
could really be something? And what sparked that in you?
Speaker 6 (16:01):
I think as we started doing it, you could notice
that there was a change in the attitude from the
kids and just their eyes and the way they saw
the world was different. And it would just take a
number of hours just working with them and they could
see that they were were something and that they were
valued and a lot of the passion that came out
of the artwork is now kind of in them and
(16:22):
it promoted us to keep going and do what we do.
Speaker 2 (16:25):
I didn't expect this to get some emotion also, so
I'm a huge child advocate, So anything that helps kids,
you know, I'm just I'm I get a little bit emotional.
But creative kids, Andre, let me ask you first, what
is this organization, what does it do for the community exactly?
Speaker 4 (16:37):
And who do you serve?
Speaker 7 (16:38):
Yes, So it's a creative youth development program. So we
really just aimed to work with marginalized youth that are
very under resource living in low income areas. Our very
first program we started and still have. It's our flagship
program at Providence Children's Hospital working with kids battling cancer.
And that was our very first program that we started
(16:59):
and never left. And actually we were recognized nationally by
the Obama administration at the White House back in twenty
fourteen and we were able to take two of our
patients where we received the award, which was huge for
our community. And so that was our very first program
and from there we just slowly just started adding programs
at the Housing Authority after school programs, and so now
(17:23):
to this day, currently we're working in six after school
sites in southern New Mexico. We're very excited that we
just franchised out there, and we're also in Santa Lasadio
working with those youth that really have nowhere to go
once the school day ends. And so our program is
free to every child in this community. We don't charge anything.
And then most recently we started working sadly after August third,
(17:48):
the mass shooting that we had at Walmart. We started
working with those families that were directly affected. And so
we have a partnership with the United Way and the
Family Residency Center, so they come to our gallery every
Saturday and work with the families there and the adults too.
The adults really wanted it, so we do that with
them on Friday evenings. And so all that work artwork,
(18:08):
you can see. It's in our gallery downtown in Union Plaza,
the sixteen thousand square foot gallery that houses all the
artwork from our different programs. And then this year we
started a new program working with incarcerated youth built they'll
pastle juvenile probation and big Brothers, Big sisters and so
that's been a very impactful program that has really made
(18:29):
a lot of headway and changed a lot of lives.
And we have a really great documentary that you can see.
It's on our Instagram Creative Kids dot olo okay and
just click at our link in bio.
Speaker 4 (18:39):
As the cool kids say, awesome, right, I know it's
on the gram.
Speaker 7 (18:43):
You will see that documentary. It's really just life changing.
We didn't realize the results that were going to come from.
Speaker 4 (18:50):
This United Way.
Speaker 2 (18:51):
Big Brothers, Big Sisters very familiar with those programs. I
was actually just a judge at their dance for kid's sake,
and you know they they do some amazing things for you.
And like you just said, you have you know, you
work with your flagship, the Children's the Children at Providence,
and then you have the juvenile program, and that one
I want to know a little bit more about from
both of your perspectives. So Andrew, I'll go with you first.
(19:14):
You know that program, like, how did that get started?
How did you see a need? Because you know you
went from you know, teaching special education and using art
there to taking it into incarcerated kids. So how like
how did that start? And what have you seen from there, like,
what do you do in that program?
Speaker 7 (19:31):
Yeah, so we were working with Big Brothers, Big Sisters
for years. We've been trying to work together and figure
out how we could partner. And so there was actually
a grant opportunity from a JJDP, which is the Juvenile
Delinquency Program. It's a national funded program, and so we
worked together and got a grant and so actually that's
(19:52):
what was written to serve the kids that are incarcerated.
But the really great thing about that is once they
do get out, if they do get out on Saturdays,
they then come to the gallery and they are paired
up with a mentor from Big Brothers, Big Sisters and
they work together at the gallery, you know, making beautiful
pieces of art that you can see. It's on our
(20:12):
Instagram and you can come down to the gallery and
see their work. And they also get the credit for
their because they have to do communities. So this is
better than them picking up trash or you know, this
is giving them the life skills, helping them cast a
future rather than doing the traditional you know, community service.
Speaker 2 (20:31):
Well, and then you know, of course there's that whole
you know, you're picking up trash, you're helping the community.
But when you're able to do art, you're able to
express it in a way that you may not be
able to verbally, or have taught that it's not good
to express it verbally growing up, because that's what happens
to a lot of these kids that are in juvenile attention.
They didn't have good upbringing. So that's that's why it's
like a therapy. And Stephen, you know this program with
(20:51):
the kids in juvenile detention, what do you see coming
of it? Like, how do you believe it's helping.
Speaker 6 (20:58):
Well, we've been doing it for I think about six
to eight months now, and what I'm seeing is a
change in the relationships between the kids and what they're
doing with not only the officers that are in there
and the behavior they have in there, but amongst each other.
They've kind of decided that they're worth it, that they're
not just throw away. They can do something that's going
to be positive, and they want to change whatever they
(21:20):
got into or however they got there, they want to
reverse it. Yeah, So it gave them the opportunity to
see themselves differently, and it gave them the opportunity to
see that maybe if I put in some hard work,
I'm going to get something out of it. So that's
what we've been seeing. And I think if you look
at the documentary that's on the Instagram account, I mean,
it's coming out of their mouth and you can put
(21:41):
the face to the images that are being made, and
it just captivates everything that we should be doing for people.
And I think the kids are getting that through our process.
Speaker 4 (21:51):
I love that.
Speaker 2 (21:51):
And if you're just tuning in, I have here Andrea
Gates Ingle, executive director and co founder for Creative Kids,
as well as Steven Ingle, co founder and creative director
for Creative Kids. Again, this is a nationally recognized nonprofit
empowering you through art in El Paso and southern New Mexico.
Now these programs later on, I'm sure I'm not the
(22:12):
only one that's like, Okay, how can I help. We'll
get into that in a little bit.
Speaker 4 (22:15):
But two things.
Speaker 2 (22:16):
Every nonprofit needs volunteers and funding. And so Steven, we
were talking a little bit off air about some things
going on with legislature and funding that's going to affect
not just your nonprofit, but multiple ones. Can you please
explain to the listening audience a little bit more about that.
Speaker 6 (22:30):
Yeah, you know, al Paso has a low economic rating
as far as Texas is known, and also throughout the country,
we have a lot of kids that are at risk.
We have a lot of challenges here in al Paso,
not a lot of economic drivers. So we need to
take care of our community and one of the ways
we do that is supporting nonprofits. They give a lot
(22:50):
that people don't see or actually know what the missions
they're carrying out, but they're effective and they're making things
different for our community every day. Yeah, so they need support,
they need funding and awareness. Like I'm sure there's a
lot of people out there that don't know about Creative
Kids or what we do, and so their opportunity about
knowing a little bit more about the things that we
(23:11):
do as nonprofits in this community and how to support
them is going to make a pass so better well.
Speaker 2 (23:17):
And also, I think a lot of people aren't aware
that certain organizations are nonprofits. Even myself doing this program
that is specifically for nonprofits, I'm like, oh, that's a nonprofit,
you know, Like United Way is a nonprofit, Big Brothers,
Big Scisies, All Passo is a nonprofit. Creative Kids is
a nonprofit. So you know, and Stephen, can I ask you,
are there any tips or advice you can give to
the listening audience and myself honestly about how we can help,
(23:41):
you know, bring awareness or help vote or anything that
we can do to help with funding for nonprofits like yourselves.
Speaker 6 (23:48):
Well, one of the ways you can do that is
just by learning our mission and vision and what we
take care of. You know, there's a lot of organizations
that are taking care of kids or the elderly, or
looking after people that might be homeless or need a
meal or whatever the case may be. But being aware
and educate it on those nonprofits and figure out ways
that you can support them, either financially or showing up
(24:09):
to do some work for them, or figure out a
way to contribute to either community foundation or visit the
nonprofit and see what they might need. I think is
the way to kind of get involved. And I know
everybody's time is tight, but you can do it online,
like you could check out what we are, what we're doing,
and what the needs are of the community and find
out a way that you can help and support.
Speaker 2 (24:31):
And honestly, just a simple way, like you said, you know,
online look, go to the Instagram page you know this
is Creative Kids dot olo. It's not hard to find
if you just search with creative Kids on Instagram, Facebook
and just share a post like you'll never know who'll
see that post and may you be able to help
them or need you know the services of that nonprofit?
Speaker 6 (24:50):
Yeah, I think that's a great point. Is like if
people would repost what we're posting and become our friends,
I think that creates a network and who knows, you
might meet somebody or it touches somebody in some way,
and it creates a new light and a new hope
for either funding or a new opportunity that opens up
for the nonprofit and for the kids in our community exactly.
Speaker 2 (25:09):
And speaking of which people wanting to help for those
that do you know want to contribute more funds or
volunteer their time. Andrea, how can people be a part
of this or maybe they know an at risk youth
that could benefit from this? Where do what's the first steps?
Speaker 7 (25:23):
Yeah? So if you just go to our website Creative
Kids art dot org, there's a button where you can
submit your inquiry with your name, your email. I do
have to say our Saturday program that we have a
waiting list, which is good and bad, but just send
us that email and we get to on our list.
As soon as something opens up, we will let you know.
(25:44):
You can also donate, you know, supplies money. There's a
button there as well. Even serving on board of directors
too is an effective way to make change and contribute.
So there's also that.
Speaker 6 (25:56):
And I should also point out being an ambassador. If
you hear our mission or you check out our Instagram
and you think somebody else should know about us, or
you think you can help in any way, I think
it's a great thing to give us a call and
at least say, hey, can I come by and talk
to you about what you're doing and how I think
I can help?
Speaker 2 (26:13):
Yeah, yeah, like think the box, Yeah exactly, create the
opportunity to help.
Speaker 4 (26:18):
That's right, exactly. And so if you know, like you said,
it's for at risk youth. So are there.
Speaker 2 (26:24):
Maybe parameters or criteria people have to meet for the
kids to be a part of this program?
Speaker 7 (26:32):
No, well so our after school programs because they're so
rural in southern New Mexico and Sentally, it's really limited
to those communities. And again we have waiting lists on
those as well. The Saturday program for August third. I mean,
our own entire community was affected in some ways, so
we have to serve the directly affected first with those referrals,
and then once there's a space open, we can't take
(26:53):
any community member.
Speaker 4 (26:54):
So okay, and I.
Speaker 6 (26:56):
Should point out this is the last year that we're
going to be funded by that. They've actually told us
that that little longer will be there. So these are
things that we need to keep support because those kids
are really getting something out of it. But we're looking
for new ways to keep those programs going and always
looking for some way to get more programs in our community.
Speaker 7 (27:17):
All which I should mention too with that program. Jane Seymour,
the actress, she has a foundation called the Open Hearts Foundation,
and she just started a new initiative this year and
it was for mental health. We wrote a grant and
we were one of ten out of two hundred and
sixty nonprofits nationwide that we're just chosen. So we just
received that grant and that will help support the Saturday
(27:40):
program and the August third initiatives.
Speaker 4 (27:42):
Congratulation that's actually.
Speaker 6 (27:43):
Taking care of the program this year. So I know
we're our iHeartRadio right now, so I think we want
to thank her for all that stuffy.
Speaker 2 (27:52):
That is amazing, awesome congratulations And before I ask each
of you if there's anything else you'd like to tell
the listening audience, my selfish question is if I wanted
to go and you know, maybe like help with the
lessons or anything like that, you know, go and actually
intro like be a part and do the class with
the kids.
Speaker 4 (28:09):
Is that a possibility or how does that work? It is,
but it's a whole we have to do pass I
get it grow on part of a nonprofit that works
with kids too. But yeah, okay, that's more.
Speaker 6 (28:18):
That's more. We leave it up to the instructors and
the archists that we're working with and that relationship between
the kids and everything. They really feel safe in that
space and introducing new people, and then it will become
kind of like a zoo and want to keep it more.
Speaker 7 (28:31):
About it, But we do educational people come on Saturdays
it's open yeah cankak and see the program and action
and see the gallery space as well. But to volunteer,
there's a lot of steps that we have to consurrec and.
Speaker 6 (28:46):
Usually we get kids from UTEP that need to do
community service. Okay, so that we're helping the U see
how they can get back to their community.
Speaker 4 (28:53):
So helping you. I love it.
Speaker 2 (28:54):
And again, if you want more information, you can go
to Creative Kids Art dot org on Instagram. I'm creative
Kids dotlo on Facebook Creative Kids, Creative Goods Art, Creative
Kids are Okay, perfect. So, Steven, is there anything else
that you would like to tell the listening audience.
Speaker 6 (29:09):
No, just thanks for the opportunity to talk to you,
and we love our passo and so just check out nonprofits.
The years to come are going to be tough, so
we're asking for everybody just to be out there and
be aware of how they can help.
Speaker 2 (29:20):
Yeah, definitely, and andres or anything else you'd like to
tell the listening audience.
Speaker 7 (29:24):
Yeah, just some people may not be aware. We have
a lot of public art out in the community. So
most recently we just did nine Ilbrija sculptures for La Nuva,
which can be found on.
Speaker 4 (29:33):
The third floor.
Speaker 6 (29:34):
Oh cool.
Speaker 7 (29:34):
Yeah, the Follow Your Instincts exhibit, which was two and
a half years of our kids and Steven and Oscar
painting these beautiful life size animals that you have to see.
Speaker 4 (29:43):
They're just beautiful.
Speaker 7 (29:45):
We have artwork, you know, across on the Carolina Bridge,
a beautiful mural on the bridge.
Speaker 6 (29:50):
You can see it on the website for sure. You
can look up all the public art we've done around town. Oh,
we're also going to install some nice murals at Fort
Bliss and that'll be in the clinic for the f families.
When the military come back from theater. Oh, they meet
their families there in the clinic or if they need services,
so that the artwork will be displayed there.
Speaker 4 (30:08):
Well, how amazing. That's that's awesome.
Speaker 2 (30:10):
And I also saw this maybe not be for public consumption,
but they I guess some of your kids had painted
the Al Paso locomotives what they carry their stuff. And
I thought that was really cool. Yes, the luggage, Yeah,
I thought that was really cool. So again, Creative Kids
Art dot Org. Andrea and Steven, thank you so much
for talking with us today.
Speaker 6 (30:30):
Thank you appreciate it.
Speaker 1 (30:31):
You've been listening to El Paso Public Forum, a weekly
public affairs presentation of iHeartRadio l Passo. If you, your
organization or event would like to be featured on an
upcoming program, please email to ep Forum at iHeartMedia dot com.
Or call us at nine one five three five one
five four zero zero. Tune in again next week for
(30:52):
another additional of El Paso Public Forum. The preceding program
was recorded at the studios of iHeartRadio El Paso.
Welcome to ol Paso Public Forum, a weekly half hour
public affairs presentation of iHeartRadio El Paso for over twenty years,
featuring local news and interviews of interest to our listeners
in West Texas and southern New Mexica. All views and
opinions expressed on this program are those of the host
and guest, and not necessarily those of iHeartRadio Management and
now El Paso Public Forum.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Welcome back to the al Paso Public Forum. I'm your host,
Amber Banda, and today we have two people here to
talk about the National Veterans Outreach Program, a part of
the American GI Forum. We have Rubin Marcs, director of
Client Services for al Paso National Veterans Outreach Program. Ruben,
thank you for talking with us today.
Speaker 3 (00:42):
Thank you for having us. Thank you so much.
Speaker 2 (00:43):
And if I say the name wrong, because I know
there's certain ways to say the names, please correct me.
Speaker 4 (00:47):
Let me know if at any time, okay.
Speaker 2 (00:49):
And we also have Anhelica Castillo, case manager for National
Veterans Outreach programs here in al Paso, and Helica thank.
Speaker 4 (00:57):
You for talking with us today.
Speaker 5 (00:58):
Thank you Amber.
Speaker 2 (00:59):
Of course, so this is a brand new organization that
I was not familiar with National Veterans Outreach Program, Ruben,
I'm going to defer to you right here. You were
explaining a little bit about it being a part of
the American GI Forum. Can you explain the relationship between
the two, and then we'll go into what this organization
(01:19):
does for the veterans and non veterans in our community.
Speaker 3 (01:22):
Sure, thank you for the question. Thank you all passal
for hostiness as well. But the National Veterans Outreach Program
was established in nineteen seventy two by Carlos Martinez, he's
our former CEO. But it was really designed to help
underserve veterans have access to veterans services. So the GI
(01:44):
Forum is actually our advocates in both Austin and Washington,
DC that fight for veterans' rights and help them achieve
more on finding claims or receiving services from the federal government.
Speaker 4 (01:58):
So it's more the political side exactly. Okay, yeah, okay.
Speaker 2 (02:01):
And the National Veterans Outreach Program here in our pass.
So what does it do for the veterans and like
you said earlier, non veterans and all passle.
Speaker 3 (02:09):
Right, So here in our pass. So we receive a
VA grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs, which allows
us to help the underserved veterans in our community that
are low income to kind of bridge the gap between
them finding themselves either homeless or at immin at risk
(02:29):
of becoming homeless. So we provide a lot of the
financial assistance that helps them either find a new housing,
pay some utilities. Also we reach out and connect them
to other services in the community as well, for legal services,
childcare services, connecting with SNAP or food stamps, connecting them
(02:54):
with other sources that will increase their income. And we
do this both for veterans and the regular homeless that
are out there. So we work very closely with the
community as far as connecting with them and having partnerships
built with them where if somebody is facing homelessness, whether
they're a veteran or not, that they have the employment
(03:14):
services available to them and then have these resources that
the VA has made available to them so they can
get back on their feet. It's a short term program,
it's not really designed for long term use, maybe seven
eight months long, but doors open when they comply and
they stay within the metrics of what we want to
(03:35):
accomplish with them, getting them to a better place. So
it kind of opens the door for them to get
a little bit longer assistance and then we work with
a VA as well for the long term assistance.
Speaker 2 (03:44):
Oh okay, so there is a long term plan there
for resource for them as well. And I think right now,
especially as of the airing of the show, with everything
going on with the government shutdown and people not receiving
their benefits, especially the SNAP benefits, so you're going to be.
Speaker 4 (03:56):
A very valuable resource. So I hope this can help someone.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
And and Helka being the case manager, can you tell
us maybe if someone wanted to apply for these benefits, like,
how would that how would.
Speaker 4 (04:09):
That work, how would that look.
Speaker 5 (04:10):
So normally, when we have a client that needs services
like getting connected to the v A or Social Security
or SNAP benefits of that nature, we also refer them
to we have what we call a healthcare navigator and
he is our go between for those kind of services.
On my end, with my priority with the clients that
were the ability to go and program with as they
(04:33):
commit the we are I'm from Andria, whether it's being
bottom and h G training can work here.
Speaker 4 (04:39):
Localizations like ducically a lot of veterany.
Speaker 5 (04:44):
Veteran with they know.
Speaker 3 (04:48):
I have somebody's homeless, who's who's indicating he was a veteran,
he served in the military. Uh, so they send us
referrals throughout the community. There's a lot of shelters out
in our.
Speaker 4 (04:58):
So maybe it works like the Opportunities Center or something
like that.
Speaker 3 (05:00):
Say, through the Opportunity Center, they connect us with veterans
and then we do an intake with them and we
get qualified for our services. And then once they're approof
for services, we still are assisting them with all the
different services that we provide in the community. So it's
really a win win for everybody. Yeah, you know what
I mean. And it's like you said, right now, it's
a scary time because of the shortage of funding that's
(05:23):
available because of the shutdown, but we won't stop. We're
going to continue trying to find any resource out in
the community, food pantries, anything we can to help connect
the veteran or somebody who's not a veteran to those
services and help them.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
So. And if someone wanted more information, is it safe
to send them to the website agif joshnvop dot org.
Speaker 3 (05:45):
Yes for more information, that's a perfect website for them.
To go to, but here locally. If they don't mind
calling nine to one five not seven seven four zero
five two five, they can call our office directly and
will connect them to either setting them up from an
appointment or if we identify that they need an additional
(06:06):
service throughout the community, we refer them out through the community.
And we're really good at knowing the different partners that
are out there that can assist in different areas. Sometimes
we can assist everybody, but we will connect them to
somebody who can help them.
Speaker 2 (06:20):
That's fantastic. And in case you missed that phone number,
I'll repeat it, but you can also find that phone
number listed in the Facebook and Instagram for Power two
point one Sunday ninety nine point nine ninety six point
three k Country, as well as in the description of
this podcast. If you're listening on the Free iHeart app
so nine one five seven seven four zero five two five,
(06:41):
and if you're just tuning in, we have Rubin Marquez,
director of Client Services for Alpaso National Veterans Outreach program
and Angelica Castile, case manager for the National Veterans Outreach Programs,
again a part of the American GI Forum. Now you
have a really cool event, a really large event that
(07:02):
is coming up November tenth at Bassett Place from.
Speaker 4 (07:07):
Ten to four.
Speaker 2 (07:08):
Ruben, would you like to start talking first about what
this event is and who it's for and everything that's
going to happen, I'll ask both of you.
Speaker 3 (07:14):
Yeah, thank you so much for that. You know what,
we were blessed to have a Basket Place approach us
about having a bigger imprint in the community with four
Bliss active duty military and veterans, and they allowed us
to have a kosk at Basket Place which we could
put community information out there. So whenever you need any
(07:36):
type of community information, there is an actual kiosk at
Basket Place where you can put that information and get
the word out to the community on any event that
you might be having or any information that is vital
to the community. So it started off with that. They
asked us if we would put together a car show,
well not not a car show, but a job fare
(07:56):
and a resource fair, and we said yes, of course,
we would love to do this, and we went out
into the mall, we connected with some of our.
Speaker 5 (08:06):
Target David Busters calls.
Speaker 3 (08:11):
Even I think it was Marshalls and Marshall's Burnington, all
the all the vendors that are around Bassett Center and
they all wanted to support the event. Uh, it got roling.
Congressman Gonzande's office decided to nominate Bassett Mall as a
Purple Heart destination. So again people just come out of
(08:33):
the woodwork to try to assist us and help us.
It's so beautiful. Thank you as well for this opportunity.
And we have mister Michael Fieddro who's doing a mural feral.
Speaker 5 (08:45):
It's a veterans dedication.
Speaker 4 (08:47):
Where's that going to be at.
Speaker 5 (08:48):
It's going to be at the entrance of the mall
Burlington and Costco. There is an entrance for Busters there mall,
so it's going to be placed up on the wall
that area. So there's going to be a purple Heart
designation at the top and usually a very beautiful mural
that he's going to be. That's a treat for veterans.
(09:10):
So it's where we're very fortunate. He's a local muralist.
We were connected with him through some other local artists
and he just you know, took the call and said, yeah,
I'll do it.
Speaker 4 (09:22):
Do you guys know what it's going to be? It
or is it going to be like an oh you do,
it's amazing.
Speaker 3 (09:27):
Yeah, it's you have to go see this because you
know what it's it's going to hit al Passle really
hard in the heart. But you know what, there's so
many veterans in al Passle that have received this, this
distinction of receiving the purple Heart. So it's home about
giving back to them. Eventually, we would like to start
putting names up on that wall that is of all
(09:49):
the individuals who have received a purple Heart in our community.
I know my brother is a Vietnam veteran. He received
a purple heart. Uh, So this means so much, not
just to us that that served veteran community, but this
way to keep us connected. Our Passo is the veterans
capital of the USA. We're you know, we're very careful
(10:10):
for the support we get from the county and the
city with veteran programs. So this is just another way
for us to give back to our community and connect
people with.
Speaker 2 (10:19):
In addition to the mural from Michael Vietro at this event,
because it's going to be a job there and a
self improvement fair, you're accepting donations proceeds. What else is
going to be at this event, and how can people
support it when they attend?
Speaker 3 (10:33):
Mainly by attending the event, because you know what, everybody
who is going who has requested a table at the
event is either providing a community service or a resource
to the community. But also employers. We know that it's
a holiday season. Money is tight if you need a
part time job. I mean, hopefully we still need more employers.
(10:53):
If there's any employers that are hiring this, I hope
they hear this so they can get in contact with us.
But we have one hundred tables already reserved, so it's
going to be a huge event. So you know, this
is this is our way to give back to the community.
And then, like Ahilico is saying, all the support that
we've been getting through outside organizations that want to sponsor
(11:15):
or be part of it has made a huge difference.
And so it's going to turn out to be a really,
really nice event for all passwords to enjoy.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
It sounds like it's shaping up to be a really
excellent event. I've been to events at Bassett and they're
always willing to help the community, and so again you're
going to take it, says here all donations and proceeds
help the MVOP assist with support. Service needs to include
food donations and assistance to avoid homelessness. So can people
take food to donate to the event or is it
more monetary?
Speaker 3 (11:44):
Yeah, okay, we're trying to get monetary donations for it.
We we work with the Outsladge, which is another veteran
organization in the community, and they help us provide meals
for veterans during the holiday season and also during Christmas.
So we wanted to be able to support them and
and be able to donate money to them as well.
(12:04):
But we have a lot of support services that our
grants don't cover.
Speaker 2 (12:08):
UH.
Speaker 3 (12:08):
Sometimes you could have a veteran coming through all Passo,
their car breaks down, they don't have nobody to call.
Speaker 6 (12:14):
UH.
Speaker 3 (12:15):
An organization like ours might be able to put them
in a motel or something, you know, during that carrier
through here. Or sometimes we just find veterans that are
sleeping literally outside that we're trying to get into our program,
and during the period that we're waiting for it to
get approved, we can put them in a motel or
help them with food. UH. It will get them vouchers
(12:37):
for for target or other places Walmart where they can
go get some food and stuff like that. So really
that's the purpose of the community for.
Speaker 5 (12:46):
Maybe a combations they've worked, like you said, two hands
community see amazing. So the day or anything we have
to be entertained, has a DJ service and provide some
music for us.
Speaker 4 (13:05):
There's line dancing. I'm there, yes, okay, I love line dancing.
Speaker 3 (13:12):
But yeah, we do have to DJs. But to go
back to the Community service awards, I'll pass with such
a humble community. You know what we were a lot
of times we asked the organizations, hey, nominate somebody from
your organization that you would like to like to you know,
focus or showcase and the award ceremony. And you know
(13:33):
it's hard for people to want to say, hey, look
I do this for the homeless.
Speaker 4 (13:37):
I do this for us.
Speaker 3 (13:38):
Yeah, but it's not about that. It's what we wanted
to do is thank those individuals that, out of their
heart go always that extra mile to help others and
know that somebody is watching, somebody is noticing what you're doing.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
So again, the National Veterans Outreach Program Job Fair and
Self Improvement Fair November tenth, the day before Veterans Day
from ten am to four pm. The VA will be
out there with different resources. There's going to be a
lot out there to help al Paso honor our veterans.
(14:12):
Welcome back to the al Paso Public Forum. I am
your host Amber Banda, and today we have Andrea Gates Ingle.
She is the executive director and co founder for Creative Kids.
Speaker 4 (14:24):
Andrea, thank you for talking with us today.
Speaker 7 (14:26):
Thank you for having us son.
Speaker 4 (14:27):
Of course.
Speaker 2 (14:28):
And we also have Stephen Ingle, co founder and creative
director for Creative Kids.
Speaker 4 (14:33):
Stephen, thank you for talking with us today. Thanks of course.
So Creative Kids.
Speaker 2 (14:38):
Tell me, Andrea, how long has this organization been in Alpaso.
Speaker 7 (14:42):
Yes, So Creative Kids just celebrated at the twenty fifth anniversary.
We started back in nineteen ninety nine. We were two
young college students at Utah. I was studying special education.
Stephen was in the arts and I was doing my blocks,
my teaching block for special education. In kind of THEO,
(15:02):
I had invited him while I was doing my student
teaching to come do some artwork with my special needs kids.
He came and it was magic that I had never
seen with my kids. And so these two young, crazy
college students decided to start a nonprofit and we had
no idea.
Speaker 4 (15:19):
How to do that, but we did. That's amazing.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
So, Andrew, I'm going to ask you first, and Steve,
I'm gonna ask you the same question.
Speaker 3 (15:25):
So, you know, you.
Speaker 2 (15:26):
Said that you were working with special ed kids. You came,
you saw the art, you know, you had them do artwork. Now,
what did you see that sparked this? Hey, I think
that this could really be something to help youth.
Speaker 5 (15:38):
Yeah.
Speaker 7 (15:39):
I just the kids I was working with, a lot
of them were nonverbal and they became verbal and we're
asking for different colors and just it was like night
and day and I just we couldn't let something like
this go by, and we just said we have to
help more kids like this, and so that's how we
got started.
Speaker 4 (15:56):
I love that.
Speaker 2 (15:56):
And Steven, what what did you see, like, Hey, this
could really be something? And what sparked that in you?
Speaker 6 (16:01):
I think as we started doing it, you could notice
that there was a change in the attitude from the
kids and just their eyes and the way they saw
the world was different. And it would just take a
number of hours just working with them and they could
see that they were were something and that they were
valued and a lot of the passion that came out
of the artwork is now kind of in them and
(16:22):
it promoted us to keep going and do what we do.
Speaker 2 (16:25):
I didn't expect this to get some emotion also, so
I'm a huge child advocate, So anything that helps kids,
you know, I'm just I'm I get a little bit emotional.
But creative kids, Andre, let me ask you first, what
is this organization, what does it do for the community exactly?
Speaker 4 (16:37):
And who do you serve?
Speaker 7 (16:38):
Yes, So it's a creative youth development program. So we
really just aimed to work with marginalized youth that are
very under resource living in low income areas. Our very
first program we started and still have. It's our flagship
program at Providence Children's Hospital working with kids battling cancer.
And that was our very first program that we started
(16:59):
and never left. And actually we were recognized nationally by
the Obama administration at the White House back in twenty
fourteen and we were able to take two of our
patients where we received the award, which was huge for
our community. And so that was our very first program
and from there we just slowly just started adding programs
at the Housing Authority after school programs, and so now
(17:23):
to this day, currently we're working in six after school
sites in southern New Mexico. We're very excited that we
just franchised out there, and we're also in Santa Lasadio
working with those youth that really have nowhere to go
once the school day ends. And so our program is
free to every child in this community. We don't charge anything.
And then most recently we started working sadly after August third,
(17:48):
the mass shooting that we had at Walmart. We started
working with those families that were directly affected. And so
we have a partnership with the United Way and the
Family Residency Center, so they come to our gallery every
Saturday and work with the families there and the adults too.
The adults really wanted it, so we do that with
them on Friday evenings. And so all that work artwork,
(18:08):
you can see. It's in our gallery downtown in Union Plaza,
the sixteen thousand square foot gallery that houses all the
artwork from our different programs. And then this year we
started a new program working with incarcerated youth built they'll
pastle juvenile probation and big Brothers, Big sisters and so
that's been a very impactful program that has really made
(18:29):
a lot of headway and changed a lot of lives.
And we have a really great documentary that you can see.
It's on our Instagram Creative Kids dot olo okay and
just click at our link in bio.
Speaker 4 (18:39):
As the cool kids say, awesome, right, I know it's
on the gram.
Speaker 7 (18:43):
You will see that documentary. It's really just life changing.
We didn't realize the results that were going to come from.
Speaker 4 (18:50):
This United Way.
Speaker 2 (18:51):
Big Brothers, Big Sisters very familiar with those programs. I
was actually just a judge at their dance for kid's sake,
and you know they they do some amazing things for you.
And like you just said, you have you know, you
work with your flagship, the Children's the Children at Providence,
and then you have the juvenile program, and that one
I want to know a little bit more about from
both of your perspectives. So Andrew, I'll go with you first.
(19:14):
You know that program, like, how did that get started?
How did you see a need? Because you know you
went from you know, teaching special education and using art
there to taking it into incarcerated kids. So how like
how did that start? And what have you seen from there, like,
what do you do in that program?
Speaker 7 (19:31):
Yeah, so we were working with Big Brothers, Big Sisters
for years. We've been trying to work together and figure
out how we could partner. And so there was actually
a grant opportunity from a JJDP, which is the Juvenile
Delinquency Program. It's a national funded program, and so we
worked together and got a grant and so actually that's
(19:52):
what was written to serve the kids that are incarcerated.
But the really great thing about that is once they
do get out, if they do get out on Saturdays,
they then come to the gallery and they are paired
up with a mentor from Big Brothers, Big Sisters and
they work together at the gallery, you know, making beautiful
pieces of art that you can see. It's on our
(20:12):
Instagram and you can come down to the gallery and
see their work. And they also get the credit for
their because they have to do communities. So this is
better than them picking up trash or you know, this
is giving them the life skills, helping them cast a
future rather than doing the traditional you know, community service.
Speaker 2 (20:31):
Well, and then you know, of course there's that whole
you know, you're picking up trash, you're helping the community.
But when you're able to do art, you're able to
express it in a way that you may not be
able to verbally, or have taught that it's not good
to express it verbally growing up, because that's what happens
to a lot of these kids that are in juvenile attention.
They didn't have good upbringing. So that's that's why it's
like a therapy. And Stephen, you know this program with
(20:51):
the kids in juvenile detention, what do you see coming
of it? Like, how do you believe it's helping.
Speaker 6 (20:58):
Well, we've been doing it for I think about six
to eight months now, and what I'm seeing is a
change in the relationships between the kids and what they're
doing with not only the officers that are in there
and the behavior they have in there, but amongst each other.
They've kind of decided that they're worth it, that they're
not just throw away. They can do something that's going
to be positive, and they want to change whatever they
(21:20):
got into or however they got there, they want to
reverse it. Yeah, So it gave them the opportunity to
see themselves differently, and it gave them the opportunity to
see that maybe if I put in some hard work,
I'm going to get something out of it. So that's
what we've been seeing. And I think if you look
at the documentary that's on the Instagram account, I mean,
it's coming out of their mouth and you can put
(21:41):
the face to the images that are being made, and
it just captivates everything that we should be doing for people.
And I think the kids are getting that through our process.
Speaker 4 (21:51):
I love that.
Speaker 2 (21:51):
And if you're just tuning in, I have here Andrea
Gates Ingle, executive director and co founder for Creative Kids,
as well as Steven Ingle, co founder and creative director
for Creative Kids. Again, this is a nationally recognized nonprofit
empowering you through art in El Paso and southern New Mexico.
Now these programs later on, I'm sure I'm not the
(22:12):
only one that's like, Okay, how can I help. We'll
get into that in a little bit.
Speaker 4 (22:15):
But two things.
Speaker 2 (22:16):
Every nonprofit needs volunteers and funding. And so Steven, we
were talking a little bit off air about some things
going on with legislature and funding that's going to affect
not just your nonprofit, but multiple ones. Can you please
explain to the listening audience a little bit more about that.
Speaker 6 (22:30):
Yeah, you know, al Paso has a low economic rating
as far as Texas is known, and also throughout the country,
we have a lot of kids that are at risk.
We have a lot of challenges here in al Paso,
not a lot of economic drivers. So we need to
take care of our community and one of the ways
we do that is supporting nonprofits. They give a lot
(22:50):
that people don't see or actually know what the missions
they're carrying out, but they're effective and they're making things
different for our community every day. Yeah, so they need support,
they need funding and awareness. Like I'm sure there's a
lot of people out there that don't know about Creative
Kids or what we do, and so their opportunity about
knowing a little bit more about the things that we
(23:11):
do as nonprofits in this community and how to support
them is going to make a pass so better well.
Speaker 2 (23:17):
And also, I think a lot of people aren't aware
that certain organizations are nonprofits. Even myself doing this program
that is specifically for nonprofits, I'm like, oh, that's a nonprofit,
you know, Like United Way is a nonprofit, Big Brothers,
Big Scisies, All Passo is a nonprofit. Creative Kids is
a nonprofit. So you know, and Stephen, can I ask you,
are there any tips or advice you can give to
the listening audience and myself honestly about how we can help,
(23:41):
you know, bring awareness or help vote or anything that
we can do to help with funding for nonprofits like yourselves.
Speaker 6 (23:48):
Well, one of the ways you can do that is
just by learning our mission and vision and what we
take care of. You know, there's a lot of organizations
that are taking care of kids or the elderly, or
looking after people that might be homeless or need a
meal or whatever the case may be. But being aware
and educate it on those nonprofits and figure out ways
that you can support them, either financially or showing up
(24:09):
to do some work for them, or figure out a
way to contribute to either community foundation or visit the
nonprofit and see what they might need. I think is
the way to kind of get involved. And I know
everybody's time is tight, but you can do it online,
like you could check out what we are, what we're doing,
and what the needs are of the community and find
out a way that you can help and support.
Speaker 2 (24:31):
And honestly, just a simple way, like you said, you know,
online look, go to the Instagram page you know this
is Creative Kids dot olo. It's not hard to find
if you just search with creative Kids on Instagram, Facebook
and just share a post like you'll never know who'll
see that post and may you be able to help
them or need you know the services of that nonprofit?
Speaker 6 (24:50):
Yeah, I think that's a great point. Is like if
people would repost what we're posting and become our friends,
I think that creates a network and who knows, you
might meet somebody or it touches somebody in some way,
and it creates a new light and a new hope
for either funding or a new opportunity that opens up
for the nonprofit and for the kids in our community exactly.
Speaker 2 (25:09):
And speaking of which people wanting to help for those
that do you know want to contribute more funds or
volunteer their time. Andrea, how can people be a part
of this or maybe they know an at risk youth
that could benefit from this? Where do what's the first steps?
Speaker 7 (25:23):
Yeah? So if you just go to our website Creative
Kids art dot org, there's a button where you can
submit your inquiry with your name, your email. I do
have to say our Saturday program that we have a
waiting list, which is good and bad, but just send
us that email and we get to on our list.
As soon as something opens up, we will let you know.
(25:44):
You can also donate, you know, supplies money. There's a
button there as well. Even serving on board of directors
too is an effective way to make change and contribute.
So there's also that.
Speaker 6 (25:56):
And I should also point out being an ambassador. If
you hear our mission or you check out our Instagram
and you think somebody else should know about us, or
you think you can help in any way, I think
it's a great thing to give us a call and
at least say, hey, can I come by and talk
to you about what you're doing and how I think
I can help?
Speaker 2 (26:13):
Yeah, yeah, like think the box, Yeah exactly, create the
opportunity to help.
Speaker 4 (26:18):
That's right, exactly. And so if you know, like you said,
it's for at risk youth. So are there.
Speaker 2 (26:24):
Maybe parameters or criteria people have to meet for the
kids to be a part of this program?
Speaker 7 (26:32):
No, well so our after school programs because they're so
rural in southern New Mexico and Sentally, it's really limited
to those communities. And again we have waiting lists on
those as well. The Saturday program for August third. I mean,
our own entire community was affected in some ways, so
we have to serve the directly affected first with those referrals,
and then once there's a space open, we can't take
(26:53):
any community member.
Speaker 4 (26:54):
So okay, and I.
Speaker 6 (26:56):
Should point out this is the last year that we're
going to be funded by that. They've actually told us
that that little longer will be there. So these are
things that we need to keep support because those kids
are really getting something out of it. But we're looking
for new ways to keep those programs going and always
looking for some way to get more programs in our community.
Speaker 7 (27:17):
All which I should mention too with that program. Jane Seymour,
the actress, she has a foundation called the Open Hearts Foundation,
and she just started a new initiative this year and
it was for mental health. We wrote a grant and
we were one of ten out of two hundred and
sixty nonprofits nationwide that we're just chosen. So we just
received that grant and that will help support the Saturday
(27:40):
program and the August third initiatives.
Speaker 4 (27:42):
Congratulation that's actually.
Speaker 6 (27:43):
Taking care of the program this year. So I know
we're our iHeartRadio right now, so I think we want
to thank her for all that stuffy.
Speaker 2 (27:52):
That is amazing, awesome congratulations And before I ask each
of you if there's anything else you'd like to tell
the listening audience, my selfish question is if I wanted
to go and you know, maybe like help with the
lessons or anything like that, you know, go and actually
intro like be a part and do the class with
the kids.
Speaker 4 (28:09):
Is that a possibility or how does that work? It is,
but it's a whole we have to do pass I
get it grow on part of a nonprofit that works
with kids too. But yeah, okay, that's more.
Speaker 6 (28:18):
That's more. We leave it up to the instructors and
the archists that we're working with and that relationship between
the kids and everything. They really feel safe in that
space and introducing new people, and then it will become
kind of like a zoo and want to keep it more.
Speaker 7 (28:31):
About it, But we do educational people come on Saturdays
it's open yeah cankak and see the program and action
and see the gallery space as well. But to volunteer,
there's a lot of steps that we have to consurrec and.
Speaker 6 (28:46):
Usually we get kids from UTEP that need to do
community service. Okay, so that we're helping the U see
how they can get back to their community.
Speaker 4 (28:53):
So helping you. I love it.
Speaker 2 (28:54):
And again, if you want more information, you can go
to Creative Kids Art dot org on Instagram. I'm creative
Kids dotlo on Facebook Creative Kids, Creative Goods Art, Creative
Kids are Okay, perfect. So, Steven, is there anything else
that you would like to tell the listening audience.
Speaker 6 (29:09):
No, just thanks for the opportunity to talk to you,
and we love our passo and so just check out nonprofits.
The years to come are going to be tough, so
we're asking for everybody just to be out there and
be aware of how they can help.
Speaker 2 (29:20):
Yeah, definitely, and andres or anything else you'd like to
tell the listening audience.
Speaker 7 (29:24):
Yeah, just some people may not be aware. We have
a lot of public art out in the community. So
most recently we just did nine Ilbrija sculptures for La Nuva,
which can be found on.
Speaker 4 (29:33):
The third floor.
Speaker 6 (29:34):
Oh cool.
Speaker 7 (29:34):
Yeah, the Follow Your Instincts exhibit, which was two and
a half years of our kids and Steven and Oscar
painting these beautiful life size animals that you have to see.
Speaker 4 (29:43):
They're just beautiful.
Speaker 7 (29:45):
We have artwork, you know, across on the Carolina Bridge,
a beautiful mural on the bridge.
Speaker 6 (29:50):
You can see it on the website for sure. You
can look up all the public art we've done around town. Oh,
we're also going to install some nice murals at Fort
Bliss and that'll be in the clinic for the f families.
When the military come back from theater. Oh, they meet
their families there in the clinic or if they need services,
so that the artwork will be displayed there.
Speaker 4 (30:08):
Well, how amazing. That's that's awesome.
Speaker 2 (30:10):
And I also saw this maybe not be for public consumption,
but they I guess some of your kids had painted
the Al Paso locomotives what they carry their stuff. And
I thought that was really cool. Yes, the luggage, Yeah,
I thought that was really cool. So again, Creative Kids
Art dot Org. Andrea and Steven, thank you so much
for talking with us today.
Speaker 6 (30:30):
Thank you appreciate it.
Speaker 1 (30:31):
You've been listening to El Paso Public Forum, a weekly
public affairs presentation of iHeartRadio l Passo. If you, your
organization or event would like to be featured on an
upcoming program, please email to ep Forum at iHeartMedia dot com.
Or call us at nine one five three five one
five four zero zero. Tune in again next week for
(30:52):
another additional of El Paso Public Forum. The preceding program
was recorded at the studios of iHeartRadio El Paso.
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.