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Heidi Rich

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Heidi has served as Executive Director since 2018. She brings her energy and focus to Art Buddies in making arts education accessible to children in the Twin Cities.

As a longtime community organizer, arts educator, and an innovative non-profit fund raiser, Heidi believes in bringing together business, neighborhood, and school communities to empower kids through mentorship and arts programming.

The power of googly eyes and duct tape

Heidi is inspired by the infinite imaginations, innate wisdom and pure joy of children, by seeing a child light up as they create a costume that reflects something they connect with deeply.

The combined experience of arts education and mentoring has endless positive effects on youth, to their self-esteem, cognitive, social, and behavioral development. She is committed to bringing the power of creative expression and personal empowerment to every Art Buddies participant.

Greer Lichtenberg

PROGRAM MANAGER

Greer has served as the Art Buddies Program Manager since 2023 and has previously worked with Art Buddies as both a mentor and an intern. She believes that everyone is creative, regardless of their artistic ability.

Having previously worked as an educator and youth development specialist, Greer strives to create an environment where each child feels supported and empowered. Her favorite part about Art Buddies is the immense joy that a simple idea—a dress covered in pinecones, for example—can bring.

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