Boys & Girls Clubs members embark on artistic journey at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
In a groundbreaking arts and literacy initiative, the Leo Goodwin Foundation has partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County and the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale to launch "Ink & Imagination," a transformative program designed to inspire creativity and self-expression among local youth.
On September 21, 2026, 20 Boys & Girls Clubs members, aged 8 to 11, will embark on a journey of artistic discovery at the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale. Guided by museum educators, the children will explore diverse art forms and learn about the principles of design and art elements through interactive discussions and activities.
“This program is about more than just art appreciation,” said Marilyn Perlyn, creator of Ink & Imagination. “It’s about encouraging children to see their ideas as valuable and fostering a sense of pride in their creations.”
Following their museum visit, the children will return to their clubs to create original artwork inspired by their museum experiences or personal happiness. Each piece of art will be professionally reproduced as a 300-piece puzzle, transforming the children’s creations into interactive keepsakes that reinforce the educational experience in a unique way. As they assemble these puzzles, children will develop skills in visual discrimination, spatial reasoning, persistence, and problem-solving.
The program will culminate in a special exhibition showcasing the young artists’ work alongside their custom puzzles. This exhibition, to be held at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, will provide a platform for families, friends, and the community to celebrate the creativity and accomplishments of the participating children.
Alan Goldberg, President and Trustee of the Leo Goodwin Foundation, emphasized the importance of the program: “Ink & Imagination gives these young people the opportunity to discover that their own ideas and creativity have value. It’s an experience that can build a lasting sense of pride and confidence.”
The initiative aligns with the Leo Goodwin Foundation’s mission to enrich the lives of children and strengthen the community. Founded by the Goodwin family, whose business, GEICO Insurance Company, has a longstanding presence in Broward County, the Foundation has supported numerous organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs, Nova Southeastern University, and various cultural institutions.
Marilyn Perlyn’s vision for Ink & Imagination is rooted in her extensive experience in creating opportunities for children to learn, imagine, and give back. “When a child creates something that is uniquely theirs and then sees it transformed into something they can hold and share, it builds a wonderful sense of pride and confidence,” she noted.
Through Ink & Imagination, the Foundation continues its commitment to providing meaningful experiences that inspire the next generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders.