SweetFrog FroYo Biz Teams with Youth Arts Forum

Westport, CT - In addition to sprinkles, candy and fresh fruit, visitors at Westport’s sweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt will have a new side for their frozen treats: Talent.

The popular shop, located at 623 Post Road East (in the Fresh Market shopping center), has teamed with the renowned non-profit Youth Arts Forum to provide a permanent home for young artists and musicians. The premium froyo shop, which now features a performance stage and art gallery, will celebrate its opening through the weekend of April 16 -17. 

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer young artists a space to showcase their talents,” said sweetFrog owner Jennifer Gallan. “We’ve always put an emphasis on art and music with our monthly ‘Draw’ promotion, and YAF will certainly enhance the fun experience at the shop.”

Youth Arts Forum (YAF) is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charity organization founded in 1990 by Barry Salottolo.  A real estate broker by profession, Salottolo was concerned about the lack of funding for education in the arts – so he created an organization to support young visual and performing artists. 

“Kids need an outlet to help them express themselves, enhance self esteem, and keep their personal dreams alive,” says Salottolo. “YAF offers them the opportunity to display and enrich their talents, but also give something back to the community.”

A portion of the proceeds from performances by YAF artists are donated to several non-profit causes, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Food Bank for New York City, Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York, County Harvest and T.J.’s Friends. YAF also distributes art supplies to those who may not be able to afford them.

Through the years, YAF has grown to include hundreds of members and has held many “Kids Helping Kids, Rock for a Cure” concerts in New York City, New Jersey, Vermont and at 32 Simon Malls. Concert locations have included The Studio at Webster Hall, Arlene’s Grocery, National Underground, Slate, the Beekman Beer Garden and The Bitter End, as well as The Stone Pony in New Jersey and other locations up and down the East Coast.

Having a permanent space at sweetFrog will allow for more exposure for YAF, and offer the opportunity for additional collaborations with local businesses. “So many of our kids have performed for local businesses,” Salottolo said. “People sincerely appreciate their talent and professionalism.” 

Salottolo is hoping that appreciation develops into sponsorships. All costs for YAF shows, including venues, marketing, advertising and production, are covered by the organization, and Salottolo himself. When possible, YAF also helps pay for the travel and lodging of many of its young performing artists. For art and gallery showings, YAF pays for venue rental. 

With the new arrangement at sweetFrog, Salottolo and Gallan are also hoping to gain more awareness for art education. “Funding for music and art in the public schools continues to be reduced,” said Salottolo, “despite numerous studies that show how important they are to a child’s development, and society as a whole.  It’s absolutely imperative to offer kids a safe and supportive place to perform and grow – and maybe even meet other artists, and form collaborations… the possibilities are endless!”

All artists and musicians 18 years old and younger are welcome to join YAF. Several YAF artists have already achieved personal successes, including Sawyer Fredericks, 2015 winner of “The Voice”, and Brandon Niederauer, currently cast as Zack in Broadway’s “School of Rock.”

The festivities at sweetFrog throughout the weekend of April 16-17 will include performances by: Bryan Schwab; Tanner Drummer Boy; Mrs. Gordon; As We Know It; Timmy Brabston; Hasty Page; Zero Distance; Roni James; and Ty Openshaw.   The shop will also feature special promotions, raffles, and values throughout the weekend.  

Youth Arts Forum welcomes donations to help fund future concerts, artist sponsorships and productions, framing and displays, as well as all incumbent expenses. Membership and donation cards are available online and at sweetFrog. 

For more information about Youth Arts Forum, or to join, visit www.youthartsforum.org, and for more information about sweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt, visit www.sweetfrog.com.