Giving Tuesday - Upward Together

As we close out 2025, we’re reflecting on a year — and a journey — filled with calm, creativity, and connection. This season feels especially meaningful because our very first Upward Together workshop took place exactly nine years ago in San Francisco.

Organizational Milestones

• Continued membership with the Arts for Healing and Justice Network
• Launched Calm Class, our digital Social Emotional Learning AI coach for educators
• Grew our team to 7 teaching artists
• Served 800+ youth and adults across Los Angeles through art and mindfulness

Education & School Impact

• Delivered professional development for educators across 3 school districts
• Hosted our first Student Art Show at Torch Middle School, showcasing nearly 60 artworks • Provided weekly art programming across Whittier City Schools + Torch Middle
• Supported Pasadena educators and Altadena students affected by the fires through Care Camp and Reopen, Restore, Rebuild, and Rise
• Youth artwork featured in the No Boundaries Art Show in Pasadena
• Led expressive arts workshops through The Expression Lab at Pasadena City College

Community Programs & Partnerships

• Family art sessions in Westwood Village
• Partnership with Project Fatherhood at Capo Center
• Art activations for the LASPN Youth Advisory Board Meeting
• Workshops in Long Beach and Visalia at the Wellness Benefit Fair

This year, we planted seeds. We created moments of calm, creativity, and belonging that will continue to grow.

💛 This Giving Tuesday, Help Us Expand Our Impact in 2026

Every leaf on this tree represents a moment your gift helps create. Your generosity helps us continue this work into our 10th year — a full decade of creative community healing.

👉 Donate:

https://giving.classy.org/campaign/654061/donate

👉 Help us grow a calmer, more connected Los Angeles

Thank you for believing in art, healing, and possibility.

Warmly,

Sya
Founder - Upward Together