Intersect hosts a recurring dinner series that gathers artists in-residence for a shared meal and conversation. The series encourages connection, especially for artists transitioning from a structured academic environment, or those who feel the isolation of working alone as an independent artist. Intersect staff, members from Holy Cross, local exhibiting artists, or other community partners are invited to connect at various dinners.  

Food is central to how we gather and carry out our core value of hospitality; it is a key feature in many other community events including our Feast Service meals, Dovetail events, Professional Development workshops, and Second Sunday Lunches with Holy Cross. 

Intersect and Holy Cross envision bright futures for the youth of our neighborhood and collaborate to provide one-on-one youth mentoring. Young people involved in Intersect educational programs are invited to connect with an adult to build authentic, reciprocal relationships spending time exploring activities together monthly. 

Youth involved in mentoring are less likely to engage in high risk behaviors. They are 46% less likely to begin using drugs, and 27% less likely to drink underage. Youth with a mentor are 55% less likely to skip school, 55% more likely to pursue higher education, 78% more likely to volunteer in their community, and 30% more likely to hold future leadership positions.

These relationships are about caring for a young person’s present and future, and being there to help them both celebrate the joys of success, and navigate the obstacles that may threaten their growth. Personal relationships are the key way to learn about and share the talents, passions, opportunities, beliefs, and needs of both mentors and mentees. We are excited to see this program expand and grow to serve more students!

Intersect pours into the future with various internship and practicum positions. We invest in mentoring young leaders, artists, seminary students, social workers, and therapists. Intersect has been proud to partner with the Gyo Obata fellowship for arts administration the past three years.

Intersect hosts a free annual fall festival that invites artists, musicians, and chefs to share their craft in a family friendly atmosphere. This event particularly connects with local residents and emphasises affordability and accessibility, encouraging first time art collectors! This event also supports local entrepreneurial craftspeople, rounding out Intersect’s opportunities for artists and audiences from various markets, backgrounds, tastes, and educational experience.

Intersect supports the broader community through intentional partnerships, collaborations, and rentals with organizations and institutions by providing affordable or free use of our facilities and staff to expand opportunities in South City St. Louis. 

Partnerships have included local music schools, dance companies, alternative education, community town-halls, professional development programs, art-therapy programs, artist-led projects, and more!