A New Era of Opportunity in Santurce
Casa Kai, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in the heart of Santurce, Puerto Rico, is dedicated to creating opportunities for academic success and sustainable employment for both youth and adults. Through world-class arts and vocational training programs, Casa Kai seeks to remove barriers to success, offering an environment that promotes hope, responsibility, and excellence. Their mission is to equip individuals with the tools needed to become engaged, productive citizens.
Reviving a Community Landmark for Generations to Come
Casa Kai’s home is the historic Segundo Ruiz Belvis School building, a once-vibrant public high school that served the community for nearly a century. Although the school was damaged during Hurricane Maria in 2017 and did not reopen, Casa Kai is committed to restoring this structure and ensuring it once again becomes a vital part of the community. The renovation, in partnership with Marvel & Marchand Architecture, is transforming the space into a modern facility that fosters creativity and learning. “At Kai, we are committed to restoring the historic structure and ensuring that it is, once again, an integral part of the community,” the organization states on its website.
In addition to offering a prime location, Casa Kai’s neighborhood is rich in arts and culture, with museums, schools, and programs that complement the organization’s offerings. It is located in an area undergoing revitalization, with Casa Kai playing a key role in uplifting the community. “Our neighborhood is attractive and has a rich arts ecosystem,” Casa Kai shares in a recent Instagram post, highlighting the potential partnerships with local arts organizations.
Empowering Through Arts and Vocational Training
Casa Kai offers two primary programs: Arts in Support of Education and Vocational Training for Decent Work. These programs are designed to improve educational outcomes and provide participants with the skills needed for successful careers.
The Arts in Support of Education program uses high-quality arts education to help youth develop essential skills such as perseverance, resilience, patience, and self-discipline. Casa Kai offers workshops in dance, theater, design, and cabinetmaking, among other arts, for students between the ages of 11 and 18. The arts are not just a means of self-expression, but also a tool for academic success and personal growth. “By using artistic processes that result in tangible results in an inclusive and empowering environment, participants develop a greater sense of self and social and behavioral skills that contribute to greater educational success,” Casa Kai explains.
For adults, Casa Kai’s Vocational Training for Decent Work program offers training in high-demand occupations that lead to well-paying jobs and career growth. The program is developed in collaboration with local employers to ensure that graduates possess the skills employers seek, improving the likelihood of employment after completion. “Kai works hand-in-hand with employers in developing and maintaining the program curriculum so that graduates possess the specific skills needed to transition into the workplace and support their future success,” the organization notes.
A Bright Future for Santurce and Beyond
Casa Kai is more than just a nonprofit organization; it is a transformative force in the Santurce community. By offering free programs that combine arts and vocational training, the organization is making a tangible impact on the lives of youth and adults. “Kai is feeding not just the mind but the soul of the community, as its name fittingly suggests—’Kai,’ which means food in the Taíno language,” states Casa Kai in a post on their Facebook page.
Casa Kai’s work aligns with its vision of creating sustainable opportunities for people to reach their full potential. The restored building serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring positive change in the neighborhood and beyond. With the help of their dedicated team and the support of local and international partners, Casa Kai is well on its way to becoming a model for community revitalization across Puerto Rico.
Get Involved and Make a Difference
Casa Kai invites individuals to join their mission of transforming lives through arts education and vocational training. By becoming a member, supporters can directly contribute to empowering youth and adults in the Santurce community. With your support, Casa Kai can continue to provide valuable programs that create lasting impact. To learn more about how to get involved, visit their website and become part of a movement dedicated to uplifting the future of Puerto Rico.
CONTACT
Casa Kai
Email: info@casakai.org
Website: https://casakai.org/
Facebook: CasaKaiPR
Instagram: casakaipr
YouTube: @casakaipr
COLLABORATORS
Y No Habia Luz, Performance Art Theatre, Facebook
Andanza, Contemporary Dance Company and School, Website
Friends of Puerto Rico, Economic Development for Women & Girls, Website
Fundación Ángel Ramos, Philanthropist for Youth Empowerment and Social Change, Website
Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start Program, Workforce Development Training Program, Website