As part of its heartfelt mission to foster a love for the arts throughout the Lake Norman area, Cain Center for the Arts in Cornelius, NC, hosted a magical black-tie evening on May 1 — A Night on the Stage: An Evening of Giving.
Featuring fabulous food, entertainment, and live private performances, all proceeds from the evening will support the center’s efforts to provide exceptional visual arts, performing arts, and social experiences within the community.
Executive Director Justin A. Dionne shares how Cain Center’s community impact programs are nurturing neighbors in life-changing ways.
“Our journey in community impact began in 2018 with a simple but powerful idea: to bring the arts directly to our local schools and ignite creativity where it begins. Over the past eight years, that commitment has deepened and expanded into a growing network of community programs designed to serve and uplift the Lake Norman region. We believe the arts are not a luxury, but a vital part of a thriving community. By removing barriers to access, we strive to ensure that every individual, regardless of background, can experience the joy, connection, and transformative power of arts and culture.”
Community Music Lessons may be the most recognized way Cain Center spreads a love for the arts. The Community Music Program, in partnership with Learn Music, began in 2020 and offers local students ages seven to 18 the opportunity to receive lessons in voice, guitar, piano, or drums at no cost as part of a nine-month program. When the program ends, students who have completed all requirements are able to keep their instrument—fostering a continued, and hopefully lifelong, learning experience.
Cain Center for the Arts also partners with Neighborhood Care Center in Cornelius, a faith-based nonprofit that provides resources not otherwise available to community members. Scholarships are offered to approximately 300 individuals, giving them access to arts programs they might not otherwise experience.
If you’re looking for a summer camp experience focused on art education, you’ve chosen the right place to keep those creative juices flowing. With everything from bucket drumming to ukulele, ceramics, clay animation workshops, cartooning basics, and more, Cain Center offers creative camp opportunities for children and youth ages four and up. A variety of interests are included in this year’s exciting summer camp lineup, along with the convenience of weekly morning and afternoon sessions. Plus, around 10% of campers are typically eligible for scholarships.
“Supporting access to the arts for every member of our community is at the core of who we are,” shares Karen. “No matter where someone falls on the spectrum of experience, background, or access, we believe art is for everyone. Time and time again, we’ve seen the power of art to heal and connect, and we are committed to continuing to invest in our community by creating a lasting space where people feel welcomed, seen, and inspired to belong.”
Hinds’ Feet Farm in Huntersville, NC, is one of Cain Center’s partners, offering art therapy day programs for participants diagnosed with a TBI (traumatic brain injury) or an ABI (acquired brain injury).
“Our partnership with Hinds’ Feet Farm is rooted in the belief that the arts can be a powerful tool for healing, expression, and connection,” explains Karen. “These art therapy offerings are designed to support individuals living with brain injuries and neurological challenges by providing a safe, supportive space where participants can explore creativity at their own pace.”
Cain Center for the Arts is located at 21348 Catawba Avenue in Cornelius, NC. For more information on classes, camps, and community initiatives, call 980.689.3101, email [email protected], or visit cainarts.org. Follow them on Instagram @caincenterforthearts.
