Isaac I. Scott is a Multidisciplinary Visual Artist and Journalist, recognized with multiple awards for his creative endeavors. With over 10 years of experience working with nonprofits and a deep understanding of organizational sustainability gained through The Philanthropy Lab, Isaac brings a unique blend of artistic vision and strategic insight to his work. As CEO of Isaac's Quarterly (IQ), he merges art and advocacy to drive transformative change. With a background in computer networking technologies and a Bachelor's degree in visual arts from Columbia University, Isaac seamlessly integrates technical expertise with his artistic pursuits, infusing every project with innovation and purpose.
Beyond his professional roles, Isaac is a devoted father of five, fueling his commitment to a more just world. Further demonstrating his commitment to the community, Isaac was ordained in 2018 at God's Touch Healing Ministry, where he served with dedication for three years as the Associate Pastor. Currently, Isaac is actively engaged in ministry within the African Methodist Episcopal church, holding a Certificate of License to Preach, where he integrates faith, art, and social justice. Additionally, Isaac is pursuing his Masters of Divinity in youth and family Ministries at Liberty University, deepening his understanding of the intersections between faith, community, and social change while preparing to serve youth and families in his ministry.
Beyond his professional roles, Isaac is a devoted father of five, fueling his commitment to a more just world. Further demonstrating his commitment to the community, Isaac was ordained in 2018 at God's Touch Healing Ministry, where he served with dedication for three years as the Associate Pastor. Currently, Isaac is actively engaged in ministry within the African Methodist Episcopal church, holding a Certificate of License to Preach, where he integrates faith, art, and social justice. Additionally, Isaac is pursuing his Masters of Divinity in youth and family Ministries at Liberty University, deepening his understanding of the intersections between faith, community, and social change while preparing to serve youth and families in his ministry.
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Isaac Scott is an experienced community organizer, currently serving as the Director of Community Initiatives at Another Choice Youth and Family Outreach Inc. Here, he spearheads The Confined Arts program, using art as a means of empowerment for individuals impacted by the legal system. As the Chairperson for the Human Services Committee at Manhattan Community Board 11, Isaac is a tireless advocate for equity and fairness in key neighborhoods including East Harlem, El Barrio, Spanish Harlem, Randall’s Island, and Ward’s Island. His deep-rooted commitment to community well-being is evident in the impactful initiatives he leads, driving positive change in these vital areas.
Isaac's influence extends far beyond his local community, reaching the national stage through his dedicated advocacy. He plays a pivotal role in the Arts Justice Safety Coalition and serves on the U.S. Prisons Program Advisory Council. Since 2014, Isaac has been a driving force in reshaping the narrative surrounding the criminal legal system's impact on individuals, harnessing the transformative power of art as a catalyst for change. Through extensive research and creative writing, he underscores his unwavering commitment to dismantling punitive triggers within the justice system. Isaac's exemplary advocacy efforts have earned him five consecutive Change Agent Awards from Columbia University, a testament to his profound influence in advancing justice through the transformative potential of art.
Isaac's influence extends far beyond his local community, reaching the national stage through his dedicated advocacy. He plays a pivotal role in the Arts Justice Safety Coalition and serves on the U.S. Prisons Program Advisory Council. Since 2014, Isaac has been a driving force in reshaping the narrative surrounding the criminal legal system's impact on individuals, harnessing the transformative power of art as a catalyst for change. Through extensive research and creative writing, he underscores his unwavering commitment to dismantling punitive triggers within the justice system. Isaac's exemplary advocacy efforts have earned him five consecutive Change Agent Awards from Columbia University, a testament to his profound influence in advancing justice through the transformative potential of art.
BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
- Manhattan Community Board 11 - Human Services Committee Chair Person
- U.S. Prisons Program Advisory Council - Council Member
- Justice Arts Coalition - Board of Directors, President
- Reentry Theater of Harlem - Board of Directors
message from our founder
While engaged in both work and studies at Columbia University, an institution with a documented history of racism, I took the initiative to establish a community arts program specifically tailored for Black and brown community members vulnerable to the impacts of mass incarceration. Following the fulfillment of my academic responsibilities in may 2023, I completely transitioned the program to Another Choice Youth and Family Outreach Inc, located in Harlem—an area deeply affected by gentrification.
At our new site, we've exemplified heightened program productivity with the successful launch of the Strategic Arts and Education Initiative, generously funded by a 2022 grant from the Ford Foundation. The transition of our community arts program from Columbia University to Another Choice Youth and Family Outreach Inc. in Harlem brought about several significant benefits:
Overall, this transition served to amplify the program's effectiveness, deepen its impact on the community, and demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in its mission.
At our new site, we've exemplified heightened program productivity with the successful launch of the Strategic Arts and Education Initiative, generously funded by a 2022 grant from the Ford Foundation. The transition of our community arts program from Columbia University to Another Choice Youth and Family Outreach Inc. in Harlem brought about several significant benefits:
- Increased Relevance and Accessibility:
- Relocating the program ensured that it was more directly accessible to the Black and brown community members it was designed to serve. This proximity facilitated greater participation and engagement.
- Cultural Alignment:
- Moving the program allowed for a stronger cultural alignment with the community it served. This enhanced resonance and connection between the program and its participants.
- Mitigation of Historical Context:
- By relocating from an institution with a documented history of racism, the program's new home in Harlem represents a positive shift away from that historical context. It demonstrates a commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Being situated in Harlem, a community deeply impacted by gentrification, provides an opportunity to actively address and respond to the challenges faced by local residents. The program's presence serves as a resource for those navigating the impacts of gentrification brought on by the expansion of Columbia University throughout Harlem.
- Community Engagement and Trust:
- The transition to Another Choice Youth and Family Outreach Inc. resulted in increased community trust and engagement. Being embedded in the local community fosters a sense of ownership and investment among participants.
- Strengthened Community Partnerships:
- The move facilitated new or strengthened existing partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community leaders. This network can provide additional resources, support, and opportunities for program growth.
- Diversification of Perspectives:
- The transition allowed for exposure to different perspectives, challenges, and strengths within the Harlem community. This broadened understanding and has significantly influenced program development in a positive way.
- Enhanced Program Impact:
- With a more direct connection to the community's needs and realities, TCA is experiencing an increase in its overall impact and effectiveness. Tailoring the program to the specific context of Harlem and neighboring communities is leading to more meaningful outcomes for participants.
Overall, this transition served to amplify the program's effectiveness, deepen its impact on the community, and demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in its mission.
