Serving Baker County for over 30 years. 

In 1987, with a grant from the Federal Juvenile Justice System, Debbie Friedman founded ArtSpeak to help at-risk and underserved youth. This program was the first of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. 

Since then, ArtSpeak has grown from serving a dozen youth to thousands. 

Many dedicated and talented artists from the community have taught classes and special workshops in a wide array of disciplines. These classes are free and may include dance, theatre, pottery, music, and graphic arts. They encourage self-esteem, self-expression, and self-discipline. They provide a positive environment, an avenue for accomplishing new things, and an opportunity for children to express themselves, succeed, and create.

Crossroads Art Center has been a stable base of support for ArtSpeak for many years, and Crossroads’ Board and members are committed to the belief that the arts enhance our lives. Through ArtSpeak, everyone has the opportunity to participate.

Baker County is a small, rural, remote, culturally isolated part of Eastern Oregon. We have a high percentage of poverty and associated challenges such as drug abuse, child neglect, and juvenile crime. However, we also have an incredibly openhearted community that cares for all of its members.