South Surrey youth-led nonprofit hosting free art party for local kids
Published 3:00 pm Monday, May 4, 2026
A group of South Surrey students are proving that they can turn a passion into something bigger.
The Playful Palette Foundation started with a love for the arts and has now become a non-profit organization built on creating an inclusive space for kids who might otherwise miss out on art and theatre opportunities.
This youth-led non-profit was founded by a small handful of students at Earl Marriott Secondary who all made the same observation: while there are plenty of programs from young athletes, there are few accessible options for kids drawn to the arts.
“We noticed that there aren’t that many non-profits or organizations targeted towards helping kids in the arts or humanities,” explained co-founder and event coordinator Hanna Hakak.
For the team – now 12 members strong – the arts aren’t just an interest, they’re a core part of who they are.
“We couldn’t imagine our life without art,” Hakak added. “We think this is a very important cause, which is why we care so much.”
The Playful Palette is hosting its first-ever free Art Party on May 9 at Bakerview Park. The free day-camp-style event will offer kids arts and crafts, musical theatre games, dancing and more.
Hakak shared that this event is aimed at helping kids explore creativity in a fun, low-pressure environment.
“Our mission is to help kids who come from underprivileged families who are interested in the arts but never had the chance to participate,” said Hakak. “We try to help them as much as possible by giving them scholarships, opportunities, and having events.”
The upcoming event builds on previous initiatives held by the non-profit organization, such as a community variety show and a sing-along event that drew a strong turnout.
“We want to help as many kids as possible and really give as many kids access to the arts,” explained marketing team member Natalia Atanackovic. “The main goal is to help as many kids as we can.”
Beyond creating opportunities, the students say they’re also pushing back against the idea that young people can’t lead meaningful change.
“A lot of the time as youth, we are not taken fully seriously,” said Grade 11 student and Playful Palette president Sabine Lapointe. “Just because we are young, that doesn’t mean that we aren’t capable of making a difference.”
Hakak echoed that sentiment, adding that the organization is as much about impact as it is about inspiration.
“A lot of young people don’t think that they can make an impact because of their age, … but we’re trying to make a difference as much as we can,” she noted.
The event organizers say community support can help the initiative grow, whether that’s through donations, attending events, or simply spreading the word.
Looking ahead, the group hopes to expand beyond South Surrey by reaching out towards other schools and communities.
“We want to open new chapters so that we can help more kids in different places,” Hakak said. “Achieving this would be heartwarming just being able to make such an impact.”
For now, the focus is on May 9 and giving kids a chance to try something new.
“I really hope that they enjoy the fun and the creativity and all of those new opportunities,” Hakak said. “It’s a chance to discover something they might not have otherwise.”
The Art Party is open to children and families through a simple online application available on The Playful Palette Foundation website, with a focus on reaching those who may not typically have access to arts programming.
The party will be held at Bakerview Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.