Kathy Karuzas has been managing Florida Color Printing in Stuart, Florida for six years, but spends her Friday afternoons inspiring local teens through art. She has been visiting Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County’s Ken Pruitt Club for since January 2022, painting and drawing with teens aged 13-18.

We had the opportunity to speak with Kathy about her experience volunteering with Boys & Girls Clubs and hear her passion for our youth.

Q: What initially inspired you to volunteer with Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County?

“I taught commercial art when I lived in Nebraska, and really enjoyed it. Often, school art programs are underfunded and not prioritized, but children really should get the exposure to art as a possible career path, to create something they can be proud of, and to maybe utilize their art to help with college funding or future employment.”

Q: What has your volunteer experience been like?

“Everyone I have worked with has been terrific, and seeing children and teens create something that they want to show off and take home is such a great feeling.”

Q: Why do you feel art programs are important for young Club members?

“Art and the creative process, like music, utilizes a different part of the brain and helps with critical thinking and working out how to do something. For example, drawing a tree and seeing how the different colors work together.”

Q: What do you hope to accomplish through volunteering and running this program?

“I hope to inspire members to develop their creativity, and experience the satisfaction of creating something that is their own. And if just one member takes that and uses it in their life to keep creating and possibly using it as a foundation for future education or employment, it will make it worth it to me. I would not be where I am with my art or employment without the support and education provided by my high school art instructor.”