CoachArt: Increasing the Hope of Chronically Ill Children and Their Siblings

Based in Los Angeles, California, CoachArt is a non-profit organization that provides free lessons in the arts and athletics to improve the quality of life for children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses and their siblings. Serving youth between the ages of 6 and 18, CoachArt matches patients for weekly lessons with qualified volunteer mentors, giving them a sense of normalcy and an opportunity to take a break from the pain and isolation associated with chronic illness. In addition, the organization's programs increase hope, confidence, and self-esteem for patients and their siblings.

CoachArt was conceived by Zander Lurie in memory of his father, Dr. Arthur “Art” Lurie. Dr. Lurie loved teaching and mentoring kids and devoted his life to the healing and wellbeing of his patients. The original mission of CoachArt was to provide arts and recreational activities to youth with chronic and life-threatening illnesses. After CoachArt received its 501(c)3 in 2001, Zander and his team spent the next 18 months researching and developing the program. The idea was embraced by patients, their families, healthcare professionals, and volunteers alike. 

In 2002, CoachArt launched a pilot program at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, where 50 patients were provided with free lessons. It turns out that siblings of chronically ill kids also go through emotional and economic challenges, so CoachArt opened its program to them as well. The following year, a fully operational program was launched, enrolling 650 patients and siblings in lessons. 

Today, the non-profit works with more than 500 volunteer coaches and nearly 100 arts and athletics organizations, serving almost 2,000 children every year through its outpatient mentoring, in-hospital workshops, activity clinics, and community events. In CoachArt's flagship outpatient mentoring program, patients enroll in 12 weekly lessons that suit their individual needs and preferences. All lessons are provided gratis to families and mentors.