Newsletter - March 2026

Student Spotlight: Justin

Big congratulations to OCCTAC Prep Arts and Youth Employment Program (YEP) student Justin N. We are so proud of you!

Justin has been accepted to Chapman University, Cal State Long Beach, and Cal State Fullerton. This is an incredible achievement that reflects his hard work, talent, and determination.

As part of our Youth Employment Program, Justin has demonstrated not only dedication and leadership, but also extraordinary musical talent that continues to inspire everyone around him.

Your OCCTAC family is cheering you on as you take this exciting next step. The future is bright. This is only the beginning!

OCCTAC at UCI: Dance for a Chance

OCCTAC is proud to partner with Circle K International, at the University of California, Irvine for their annual Dance for a Chance Event, a four-hour festival held on March 7, 2026. The event brings students together for live performances, interactive activities, and community engagement. 

OCCTAC was honored to be the beneficiary of this event, with 100% of proceeds directly supporting our programs and the students we serve. We are grateful for the partnership and the impact made possible through this generous effort. 

Interested in making a difference? We invite community groups and organizations to partner with OCCTAC on future fundraising events to help expand opportunities for youth through the arts.

EISOA Spotlight: Downtown Disney Trip

Our EISOA seniors enjoyed a joyful day at Downtown Disney filled with food, creativity, laughter, and connection. 

EISOA supports Orange County residents ages 60+ through creative engagement and social connection. With government funding coming to an end, this vital program is now at risk. Please consider supporting EISOA to help us continue providing a space where older adults can connect, create, and belong.

Help Support EISOA

You’re Invited: Open House & Spring Celebration

Join our Founder, Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami, for a special opportunity to experience OCCTAC at our Open House and Spring Celebration.

Thursday, April 16 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM Lunch and Campus Tour

Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center (OCCTAC) 2215 N. Broadway St.Santa Ana, CA

Luncheon Hosted By: OCCTAC Board of Directors and Executive LeadershipStuart Nichols, Jackie Lau, John Tran, Kim Kaston, Nadine Levin, Vanessa Ryan, Dr. Rosalinda Larios, Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami, Steve Kaloper

RSVP and Questions: Emily Carlton (714) 393-9035 emilyc@occtac.org

RSVP Today!

Ways to Help OCCTAC 

Your generosity supports innovative arts, education, and therapy programs serving low-income families, children with special needs, and older adults. Whether you make a one-time gift, become a monthly donor, contribute stock, plan a legacy gift, request an employer match, host a peer fundraiser, or donate in-kind supplies, every contribution helps unlock potential and strengthen our community.

Explore Ways to Give!

The Orange County Children's Therapeutic Arts Center (OCCTAC) 501(c) (3) – Tax ID # 33-0930891