Powerful Stories
Deserve to Be Seen.
Despite the power of film to inspire change, too many young voices tackling urgent social issues are left without the funding, mentorship, or platforms they need to share their stories. We’re here to change that!
Mission Statement:
At Social Cinema Foundation our mission is to empower young adults to share their personal stories and struggles as a pathway to healing and mental well-being. Through the transformative power of storytelling and hands-on training in the film industry, we create a safe, supportive space where voices are heard, experiences are validated, and creative potential is nurtured. We believe that by helping young people express their truth on screen, we not only foster emotional growth and resilience but also equip them with the skills and confidence to thrive in both life and the world of filmmaking.
Vision Statement:
We envision a world where every young person has the opportunity to be seen, heard, and celebrated — where their stories inspire healing, drive social change, and shape a more compassionate, connected society through the art of filmmaking.
Traveling Mercies
Two Black high school students have different attitudes about the daily micro aggressions they experience in an ultra wealthy neighborhood of Houston, TX. When one of them encounters a shocking outburst at their private prep school, they’re both forced to reexamine their viewpoints.
Impact Areas
Academic Achievement Through Arts Engagement
Research by the National Endowment for the Arts demonstrates that arts participation, including filmmaking, plays a critical role in improving academic outcomes for underprivileged youth. Data shows that students actively engaged in arts programs achieve better academic milestones compared to their peers with limited arts exposure.
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Students with strong arts involvement are much more likely to graduate, staying motivated and engaged with their education. Among students with multiple arts credits, only 4% did not graduate, compared to 22% of their peers with limited arts exposure
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Youth with high arts involvement are 15% more likely to enroll in a selective four-year college (41% vs. 26%), underscoring the role of creative engagement in fostering educational ambition.
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Arts access in high school triples the likelihood of earning a bachelor’s degree, with 17% of arts-engaged students reaching this milestone versus only 5% of their peers.
Career Aspirations and Goals through Arts Engagement
Participating in the arts cultivates higher career ambitions, opening doors to professional pathways and academic interests aligned with future careers. Research indicates that individuals with arts-rich experiences are more likely to envision themselves in professional fields.
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Half of adults with extensive arts backgrounds expect to work in a professional career, a substantial increase over those with less arts involvement (21%).
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College students with significant arts engagement are more than twice as likely to pursue majors that prepare them for professional careers (30% vs. 14%).
I have been sitting on the idea for this project for many years. I could not have made this film happen without the generous support of Social Cinema Foundation. I can’t really distill into words what it meant to me, other than to say that it meant so much.
~Madison Trice
Real Stories, Real Change: Mentees Speak Out
Mental health is an important issue and it is great to work with people who understand the impact of what this story means. I really hope that this story speaks to those who watch it!
~Connor Martfeld
With your support, we can amplify underrepresented voices, fund socially impactful films, and ensure that stories capable of shifting public dialogue and inspiring action reach the audiences who need them most
How You Can Help
Donate
Make a difference with a one-time donation that directly funds resources, equipment, and professional instruction for our youth, or become a monthly supporter to sustain impactful year-round programming—every contribution, big or small, counts!
Sponsor
Partner with us as a corporate sponsor or community supporter. Sponsorships help us expand our reach, provide specialized workshops, and offer scholarships to students. Learn more about sponsorship benefits and how your business can make a difference.
Volunteer
Join us as a mentor, instructor, or event volunteer. Your time and expertise make a difference, whether you’re an industry professional, educator, or simply passionate about helping youth. Click to contact.