Our Art Teachers are a valuable resource because they can make magic happen in the classroom.  But even the best magicians need tools to work with. Teachers can help students make great art with copy paper and a box of crayons but there are so many mediums that can be explored and so much creativity that can be unleashed with the proper supplies. 

The Sanford Brush & Palette Club (SBPC) has supported several initiatives over the years to help the Art Teachers in our Lee County Public School System successfully complete classroom projects and explore opportunities in the realm of art.   Our members have donated or collected donations of art and craft materials; provided in-school demonstrations; participated in school career days; and sponsored summer camp scholarships.  

In 2011, all these different projects coalesced in the formation and initial funding of the Art Angels for Budding Artists (AABA) program.  Its special mission is to support art and arts education for students in the Lee County Public School System.   Grant & Sponsorship opportunities are offered to Art Teachers that we hope will enable them to give their students the best possible chance to succeed.  

In 2013, the SBPC received the “Friend of the Arts” award from the North Carolina Art Educator’s Association because of the effect of AABA on the community. According to one publication, “The citation praised the club for its impact on the residents of Lee County, especially the county’s schools and youth.”

Today’s AABA program is funded primarily through donations in the form of cash or art materials and income from our annual Art Angels Raffle.