Art classes in Queens

When I was 5 five years old, I knew I wanted to be an artist. However, no one really supported my dreams because they said art was "just a hobby" and not to be taken seriously (in other words, there was no way I could make money off of it, so it was pointless to pursue). 

My name is Jennifer, and I am currently studying studio art at Mount Holyoke College (a women's college in Massachusetts). I have always dreamed of one day helping other young children gain the courage to follow their artistic dreams and fostering an environment of courage and hope.

 This August, I would like to start working towards this goal by teaching a 2-week art class to students in grades 6th through 10th in my hometown area of Queens, NY.   

The goals of this class would be to:

1) Encourage young 6th and 7thgraders to begin to take art seriously by teaching various drawing and painting techniques
2) Help these 6th and 7th graders to begin building their art portfolios in order to apply to high schools that allow them to focus on art
3) Encourage 8th, 9th, and 10thgraders to begin to take art seriously by teaching various drawing and painting techniques
4) Help these 8th, 9th, and 10thgraders to begin building their art portfolios in order to apply to colleges where they may be able to major or minor in art 

 I would like these classes to be as low cost as possible or possibly free. Therefore, I am asking for your help to raise the necessary funds to cover supplies (paint, canvases, brushes, etc.), renting a classroom, and other expenses for every single student who wants to participate. 

If my goal gets funded, I will be able to help 10 students explore their passion and set them up with the tools they need to pursue art if they so choose. I know an opportunity to explore art would be much appreciated by many kids.

Thank you so much for your collaboration.