FAD stands for Friends of Art & Design—an all volunteer, non-profit organization that was founded in 1994. Our purpose is to support the students of the ​High School of Art & Design, a public high school with a commercial art​s​ focus. Located at 245 E 56 Street, FAD was established by residents of the neighborhood surrounding the school. While many of the school’s graduates have achieved incredible success, many current students have unmet needs which FAD strives to fulfill.

Mission

 We are people who care deeply about the education and well being of the students of the High School of Art & Design​​.​ FAD Board members and supporters believe that it is every citizen's responsibility to do all she or he can do to help every young person achieve his or her potential, not only for the student's welfare, but for the welfare of our society.​

FAD in Action

  • Tutoring: FAD volunteers tutor students one-on-one during their lunch hour(s) at the FAD Learning Center, a dedicated facility at the school. A&D students are strong in the arts but many need help in academic subjects (e.g. math, history, science).
  • Higher Education: FAD funds the college application fees for over 100 students in need each year. Your $65 donation can help a deserving student apply to CUNY schools!
  • Culture: FAD subsidizes and chaperones students on educational visits to NYC’s renowned institutions and studios (e.g. MOMA, the NY Philharmonic, the Met etc.).
  • Internships: FAD sponsors internships for students at some of New York’s leading art and architecture firms. You’ll even find our interns in showrooms in the D&D Building!
  • Awards, Scholarships: FAD presents awards and scholarships based on merit and need
  • Unbudgeted Programs: FAD provides grants for unbudgeted extracurricular activities, concerts, equipment, exhibitions and drama productions. FAD has contributed funding for everything from live models for the annual Draw-a-Thons, to an industrial sewing machine for the fashion department!
All donations to FAD are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Working with the administration and faculty, FAD helps identify the school's unfunded needs and awards allocations based on the merit of each project.
FAD is always in need of funding and volunteers. Find out how you can help here!  
Read FAD founder Sara Koffman’s story published in the New York Times.
FAD is proud to work with several community partners including the Art & Design Alumni Association, East Midtown Partnership, Sutton Area Community, and of course the students, faculty and parents of the High School of Art & Design!