Artist Training Program
Spring/Summer cohort
ANNOUNCING OUR SPRING/SUMMER ARTIST COHORT!
We are excited to celebrate our Spring/Summer cohort as they embark on their journey in the Joy for Seniors Professional Development Residency Program.
Over the next few months, these individuals will take part in an inspiring journey designed to strengthen their impact in the community using the arts as a platform for wellness and human connection. We’re thrilled to be a part of their journey and eager to see the impacts they’ll create as the weeks progress.
Learn more about these cohort members on our Joy for Seniors Team Page, and see some of their work in the program on our social media channels @givejoyforseniors.
joy for seniors
professional development residency
for artists and creatives
The Joy for Seniors Professional Development Residency is a 15-week hands-on training program for artists and creatives to gain skills and experience planning and leading arts activities for seniors and older adults with disabilities.
PROGRAM BENEFITS
Artists are selected through an open application process to participate in the program and receive the following benefits:
- hands-on group training sessions from experts in the fields of arts, education, and social work,
- ongoing individual guidance from mentors who specialize in working with older adults,
- guided in-person teaching opportunities to plan and lead activities for seniors and older adults with disabilities,
- $1500 stipend and Certificate of Completion documenting professional development hours upon successful completion of the program.
ELIGIBILITY
Artists, crafters, arts educators, and creatives ages 18+ with experience working in physical 2-D and 3-D visual arts mediums are eligible to apply. Selected participants must be able to attend program activities in person in Austin, Texas, during the residency period.
PROGRAM PERIOD
The Joy for Seniors program hosts two professional development cohorts each year.
Fall/Winter Session: October through February
Applications open in September.
Spring/Summer Session: April through August
Applications open in March.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply to the professional development residency?
Any adult artist, crafter, creative, or arts educator with experience working in physical 2-D and/or 3-D visual arts mediums is eligible to apply. Prior experience teaching or leading activities for seniors and older adults is not required.
Selected participants must be adults (age 18+) and submit to employment verification and a background check prior to the start of the program. Selected participants must be able to attend program activities in person in Austin, TX.
I've never worked with seniors. Can I still apply?
Absolutely! The program is designed to empower artists with the skills and knowledge to develop activities that are tailored and accessible to the needs of seniors and older adults.
Is this a paid opportunity? How much?
Participants will receive a $1500 stipend upon successful completion of the program.
When and where are the program activities scheduled?
Selected participants must be able to attend program activities in person in Austin, TX, for the duration of the 15-week program.
Fall/Winter Cohort runs October to March, with holiday break in December.
Spring/Summer cohort runs April to August, with holiday break in July.
Weekly Arts Classes:
Program participants will be assigned a program location (in Austin) to lead weekly 90-minute group arts classes for seniors. Class times depend on the needs of selected partner facilities, but are typically scheduled on weekdays between 10a and 4p.
Training Sessions:
Program participants will meet with other artists and mentors for live training sessions every two weeks. Meeting times will be determined according to cohort availability.
Public Events:
Program participants will participate in at least two public events benefiting local seniors and assist with planning and execution of a concluding community showcase event at their assigned facility. Dates and times will be determined according to program needs.
What is the time commitment for this program?
The program runs for 15 weeks, with an average time commitment between 4 to 6 hours each week. Commitments include leading one 90-min arts class each week, attending 60- to 90-minute training/mentorship sessions every other week, and assisting with two public events during the duration of the program.
Will I need to provide supplies?
No. We will work with you to plan lessons and ensure necessary supplies are provided.
Will I need to undergo a background check?
Yes, we require all program participants to undergo a background check before they can begin working with seniors.
2025-2026 APPLICATIONs are closed
ARTIST TRAINING PROGRAM
Next Cohort Begins October 2026.
Provide your name and email below to receive updates and notifications about the 2026-2027 Joy for Seniors Professional Development Residency Program.