Catch the
Vision
At Unity Performing Arts Foundation, we believe in the power of the arts to change lives.
Our vision is to create a platform where young people can discover their talents, build their character, and develop into leaders who impact their community.
Through our programs, we offer a path for youth to express themselves, grow in confidence, and succeed in life.
Our Vision Statement
Impacting our community by transforming young lives into high-character leaders through the platform of the arts.
Our Journey:
From Vision to Reality
Our vision began in 1993 with a dream to create a structured platform where minority youth could engage with soulful art forms—art that is expressive, emotional, and rich in history. In May 2000, we officially became Unity Performing Arts Foundation and launched our first program: the Voices of Unity Youth Choir. Since then, we have grown to encompass multiple artistic disciplines, always keeping our focus on the development of character, leadership, and excellence.
Phases of the UNITY Vision
To achieve our vision, we’ve broken it down into five key phases. Each step builds upon the last to create a comprehensive system for artistic and personal growth.
Phase 1: Artistic Programs
UNITY offers six core programs that blend soulful artistry with leadership training. Each program not only fosters artistic talent but also builds character, discipline, and a sense of purpose.
- Soulful Choral Music: Our students learn to perform styles such as gospel, R&B, jazz, and more while developing leadership and teamwork skills.
- Creative Writing: Students improve their reading and writing skills, unlocking the power of self-expression.
- Oratory: Youth develop public speaking and debate skills, learning to communicate confidently in any setting.
- Dance: From modern to African dance, students express themselves through movement, gaining physical and mental discipline.
- Drama: Our drama program teaches everything from acting to stage production, allowing students to explore storytelling in its many forms.
- Instrumental Music: Whether in our Unity Band or Soulful Orchestra, students learn to play and appreciate a wide range of musical instruments.
Phase 2: UNITY Arts Institute
UNITY isn’t just about performance—it’s about mastery. Our Arts Institute provides professional training in every discipline we offer. Youth and adults alike can develop their artistic skills in vocal music, creative writing, dance, and more, with classes taught by experienced professionals.
Phase 3: Youth Development & Leadership
Our vision is not just to develop artists but to raise leaders. UNITY’s youth development programs provide mentorship, life coaching, and leadership training, guiding students from childhood to adulthood. We help them discover their purpose, develop their character, and equip them to succeed at school, work, and in the community.
Programs include:
- Building Your Character (BYC): Teaching the importance of character as the foundation of success.
- Leadership, Communication, and Impact (LCI): Preparing students for college, careers, and adult life.
- Empowerment Weekends: Workshops focused on critical thinking, teamwork, and communication.
Phase 4: Building the UNITY Center
One of our most ambitious goals is to establish the UNITY Center for the Performing Arts and Youth Development—a state-of-the-art facility in downtown Fort Wayne. This center will serve as a second home for young people, offering artistic training, youth development programs, and a space for performances and community events.
The center will feature:
- A 1,300+ seat auditorium
- Dance studios, instrumental rooms, and choir rooms
- A recording and video production studio
- Seminar rooms, conference spaces, and much more
Phase 5: Expanding UNITY Nationwide
Our vision doesn’t stop at Fort Wayne. We aim to replicate the UNITY model across the United States, creating a national network of performing arts and youth development centers. Our goal is to inspire communities around the country, offering non-traditional arts programming that empowers youth to become leaders in every aspect of their lives.
Make the Vision
a Reality
At UNITY, we believe in thinking big and creating lasting change. Our vision is bold, but with your support, we can achieve it. Whether you are an individual, a business, or a community partner, you can help us transform the lives of young people through the arts.
Here’s how you can get involved:
Donate
Your generosity will help us expand our programs and build the UNITY Center.
Volunteer
Share your time and talents with the next generation of leaders.
Partner with Us
Businesses and organizations can collaborate with UNITY to create lasting impact.
