Last week a group of volunteers from Swarovski, the CFDA, and designers Alex and Matthew Orley, and Brandon Maxwell  gathered at the Dream Charter School in Harlem to spend the day making art with students. The Free Arts Day program is an initiative that provides kids the opportunity to engage with a mentor while collaborating on a pre-designated craft. As the teams focus on completing the creative task set before them, the goal is to forge a meaningful connection that bolsters the students’ self-esteem, confidence, and overall enthusiasm.

Swarovski, a long-term partner of the CFDA, brought the program to the attention of the Council, which in turn spread the word to interested members. Brandon Maxwell was especially enthusiastic to participate. “Arts programs in school growing up are what really got me by, encouraged me to dream, and ultimately led me to the career I have today,” he said. “Getting to meet all of the children and spend time with them, hearing about their lives, their hopes, and their dreams was so special. And I felt very lucky to have had the opportunity.”

While building snow sculptures out of bubble wrap and packing tape, and winter wonderlands complete with Swarovski donated gems, the day was a success. The Free Arts Day program prides itself on providing these types of moments of joy, and serves as a clear reminder how sometimes a little effort can make a big difference.