CalArts Cares is a series of volunteer events in which California Institute of the Arts students give back to their host community of Santa Clarita. Between Feb. 24 and March 2, students will donate their time to local not-for-profit organizations—with projects ranging from public art projects and musical performances to routine repair and maintenance.

The overarching goals are to raise awareness and facilitate fundraising for local service organizations and charities. Through CalArts Cares, the Institute seeks to strengthen ties in the community and to provide students with meaningful community service beyond the campus.

This year, CalArts Cares will work with four Santa Clarita Valley-based organizations: Carousel Ranch, Assistance League Santa Clarita, Gibbon Conservation Center, and The Gentle Barn.

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, CalArts students will donate their time at Carousel Ranch, an organization dedicated to providing equestrian therapy for disabled children. Fulfilling the ranch’s wish list, students will paint a mural in the ranch’s Opera House, give the tack room a new coat of paint and pitch in on odd jobs.

Students are scheduled to volunteer with the Assistance League Santa Clarita on Saturday, March 1st.  The Assistance League serves the community by providing clothing, education and emotional support to families, the elderly and the disabled.  To promote the League’s efforts, CalArts designers will help create fundraising flyers and musicians will entertain customers outside of the League’s resale store located at 24364 Main Street in Newhall, California.

In addition to these confirmed events, a CalArts Cares benefit concert is being planned. All proceeds from the benefit concert will go to support local organizations: Gibbon Conservation Center, and The Gentle Barn. Dates, times and location will be announced.