Coach Art

CoachArt is a national nonprofit that brings joy, connection, and possibility to children impacted by serious or chronic illness and to their siblings through free, adaptive arts, athletics, and STEM programs. Founded in California in 2001, CoachArt has expanded nationwide, pairing young people with caring volunteer mentors through four-week one-on-one lessons, group clubs, and community events in activities including painting, music, cooking, sports, science, and arts and crafts. Its family-centered model recognizes that illness affects more than the child receiving treatment, creating opportunities for both patients and siblings to build confidence, reduce isolation, and connect with peers who understand their experiences. In 2025, CoachArt delivered 40,379 lesson hours to 1,730 children with the support of 3,168 active volunteers; half of enrolled participants were patients and half were siblings. Among participating children, 97% reported having fun, 89% felt more confident, 86% experienced relief from stress, and 94% said they learned from a positive adult role model.

Bay Area Bright Futures Foundation is proud to continue its partnership with CoachArt through a $25,000 grant supporting Bay Area children and families. The grant supported an in-person Field Day for 40 children and will support an upcoming Art Day for an additional 40 children, bringing together families navigating similar circumstances in welcoming, joyful settings. It also funds 130 four-week one-on-one lesson sessions, lesson supplies, and hospital outreach efforts that connect more families to CoachArt’s free programming. This investment reflects BABF’s mission to expand opportunity for underserved youth by supporting trusted, community-rooted organizations that provide mentorship, creative outlets, and a sense of belonging—helping young people thrive despite the challenges they face.