Just as a glassblower shapes molten material into art, GlassRoots in Newark has spent 25 years shaping raw potential into opportunity.
In 2001, the late educator and artist Patricia Kettenring wondered how the same guidance she offered her college students might reach other community members. The answer: glass art.
What began as a table at the Boys & Girls Club of Newark has grown into a 5,000-square-foot center teaching hot-glass and assembling techniques while introducing students to creative career pathways and mentorship opportunities. GlassRoots’ classes—offered with scholarships for Newark-based organizations and through a fully funded fellowship program—serves more than 5,000 people each year, ages 8 to 80…