LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A Kentucky after-school program opens up creative roads to math and science through art. The Steam Exchange in Louisville draws out something special in the students that go there.

“There’s no limit to what we can do here,” said Rashaun Jones, the senior intern at the Steam Exchange. “That is what kept bringing me back.”

The Steam Exchange is a grassroots organization that was co-founded by Caitlin Kannapell and Rachel Mauser. The group works toward greater equity in our community by amplifying voice, showcasing creativity and leadership, and co-creating collaborative, public art with the youth that live in Louisville’s Smoketown Neighborhood.

“We use art here as a gateway for young people to learn new skills in math and science,” said Kannapell, one of the Steam Exchange’s co-directors.

It’s the organization’s goal to support Smoketown’s rich history and current residents’ positive sense of neighborhood identity and values.

Kannapell and Mauser allow the students to decide which community projects they wish to tackle.

“We want this to be a place that they own and they really help direct,” said Kannapell.

It’s important for these women, because the reality is that these children wouldn’t otherwise have the arts.

“The majority of our youth don’t take art classes at school or don’t have access to art any other way besides at the Steam Exchange,” said Mauser.

Jones leads classes at the Steam Exchange. He’s there to help make sure the current crop of talent has the right technique and plenty of fun on their journey.

“Art is really fun, I hope everyone gets to experience it in their own way,” said Jones. “You might not find this place, but I hope you find a place like this.”