A Personal Letter from
Executive Director, Dr. Kim Keith

Spring is upon us, and at Hilltop Artists, that means our studios are bustling with energy. Students are busy creating garden art and functional pieces for our Spring Sale, instructors are preparing for our In Residence program in June with guest artist Eriko Kobayashi, and gearing up for her Hot Shop Hot Night demonstration on June 6th. 

This is always a season of growth, creativity, and community. But this year, we are also facing unprecedented challenges that threaten our young people and the very existence of organizations like ours.

Hilltop Artists, like many in the nonprofit arts and education sector, is in a crucible. A crucible is both a trial and a transformation, and just as we teach our students to embrace the heat and shape something strong and beautiful from molten glass, we are rising to meet this moment with courage and determination.

 

For 30 years, we have stood by our mission to “connect culturally and economically diverse young people to better futures.” We refuse to let this political moment threaten our commitment. We work with youth and families living in fear of deportation, losing identity-affirming care, job loss, being targeted with violence, homelessness, and hunger. These young people deserve stability, safety, and a space where they can build confidence and community—and we will not let them down.

Typically, I would share their stories with you. Yet, today, for some, it’s not safe to share their experiences in writing; it’s not safe to print their names. This reality is heartbreaking.

I know you and others in the Hilltop Artists community understand that supporting youth is not just an act of charity—it is an act of deep, sustaining compassion in the face of fear and division. It is an investment in a future where all young people, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive.

 

Beyond the existential threats to our students and their families, the practical realities of nonprofit fundraising cannot be overstated. We need your support to sustain Hilltop Artists in this crucial moment.

Inflation, rising operational costs, and increased salary thresholds have stretched our budget thin. We’d love for you to help us provide competitive salaries and add to our reserve fund (which seems like a normal request rather than pie in the sky) but before we can grow we need to meet our immediate commitments for this fiscal year. Our goal is to raise $150,000 before June 30, 2025; will you help us achieve this?

Your donation today is more than a financial contribution—it is a statement that you believe in the power of art to transform lives and that you trust Hilltop Artists to do this work.

Youth need a safe space featuring a dangerous activity, right? Turns out, they do. Our students thrive in the paradox of our program, finding safety and discipline within an art form that demands focus, teamwork, and resilience. They shape 2,000-degree glass while also shaping their futures, building patience, communication skills, and confidence.

The lessons learned in our hot shops extend far beyond the studio; they empower young people to navigate an uncertain world with strength and creativity. This is why Hilltop Artists must continue. And this is why we need you.

Please, support our mission and champion our youth. Make a gift today.

 

 

With gratitude and determination,

Kim

P.S. I don’t know about you, but music helps me to get through tough times. I’ve put together a playlist to share with you— these songs make me laugh and cry, and I hope they bring you as much joy and strength as they bring me.

Songs when I feel like crying—bit.ly/kims-songs-to-cry

Songs when I feel like smiling—bit.ly/kims-songs-to-smile