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For Indy Nonprofit Arts For Learning, COVID-19 Closures Are Double Whammy

Arts for Learning President and CEO Joellen Florio Rossebo
Arts for Learning President and CEO Joellen Florio Rossebo

Updated April 10 at 2:07 p.m.

The COVID-19 public health crisis is taking a financial and emotional toll on many local creatives and educators.  For the Indianapolis nonprofit, Arts for Learning,  it’s a double whammy.

The group brings professional teaching artists like dancers, musicians and sculptors directly to children for interactive workshops, residencies and performances. Year-round programs are offered to schools, parks departments and after school programs for a fee. 

From our Arts and Culture Desk, WFYI’s Jill Ditmire spoke with Arts for Learning President and CEO Joellen Florio Rossebo about the sudden changes that she, her staff and artists had to make to keep bringing creative arts to kids.

Correction: An earlier version of this post mistakenly said the Arts for Learning programs were offered for free. The organization does charge for its programs.

Jill Ditmire was no stranger to the broadcast world. Her face and voice were a daily part of the lives of viewers and listeners in the Midwest for 25 years. She was the local news anchor during "All Things Considered" and a contributor to "Morning Edition," "Sound Medicine," "Art of the Matter “Curious Mix” and "Wednesday Live at 5:44." Jill's broadcast experience included anchoring and reporting news at television stations in Indianapolis, Detroit and Lafayette, including WTTV, WRTV, WLFI, WJBK, WTHR, WISH and the Ford Motor Company News Network. She produced her own television series on Indiana Public Television for eight years called “The Good Life” which showcased independent chefs, restaurants and local wineries.
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