Aligning SU-CASA Programs with Best Practices


What is SU-CASA?

SU-CASA is the largest municipally funded Creative Aging program in the United States.

As described by New York City’s Department of Cultural Affairs, “SU-CASA is a community arts engagement program that places artists and organizations in residence at senior centers across the five boroughs of New York City.”

The program provides grants to artists and organizations for the creation and delivery of arts programming for seniors. Teaching artists engage participating seniors in an art project or series of cultural programs over the course of the residency, which also include a public program component – an exhibit, reading, performance, open house or other cultural interaction open to the surrounding community.

How do I get involved with SU-CASA?

Watch for announcements and information posted to the SU-CASA section of NYC’s Department of Cultural Affairs website as well as for updates from the Department for the Aging.

Connect with your local City Council members and express your interest in SU-CASA.

How do I align my SU-CASA program with Creative Aging best practices?
  • Plan the program with your teaching artist before you start classes
  • Divide the contact hours into smaller workshop series (e.g. 3 series over 60 hours)
  • Focus on skill-building and process over an end-product
  • Review the Best Practices section of this website