Arts & Scraps

Arts & Scraps centers the community by providing reused materials and educational resources to promote sustainability and creativity in Detroit.

Arts & Scraps has dedicated itself to the reuse of as much material as possible by turning it into community resources and education through relationships, innovation, and accessibility. We want to create open, accessible spaces for Detroiters to experience learning and creativity through the fun and expansive joy of reused materials. We want to teach, resource, and inspire more people in deeper ways each year. We envision Arts & Scraps serving every neighborhood in Detroit (and much of Metro-Detroit) with programming, creative reuse materials, and partnerships.

Our educational programs are designed around STEM curricula, thoughtfully aligned with state standards. Students are offered a variety of distinct curriculum tracks, each focused on specific topics or units. Central to our approach is an emphasis on open-ended, creative learning experiences that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—skills that foster a lasting enthusiasm for learning. 

Arts & Scraps’ programming unfolds as a dynamic and engaging journey, aimed not only at academic development but also at nurturing social and emotional growth, fine motor skills, and creativity. Our curriculum remains aligned with meeting the diverse needs of our students. We extend our programs across schools, community organizations, after-school initiatives, and community centers, with a strong focus on Detroit's vibrant communities. Through our community center, we open our doors to learners and enthusiasts of all ages by way of open community events that allow all ages to experience new creative pathways.

Per Year:

36,027 people served through educational programming

~2,000 Volunteers

20 Tons of Recycled Material Processed for creative reuse

142 Communities Impacted