Piece by Piece Supports UN Sustainable Development Goals
Photo Courtesy of REDF
At Piece by Piece, our work not only uplifts the lives of individuals in underserved communities through art and economic opportunity but also aligns with global efforts to create a more sustainable and equitable future. Specifically, we are contributing to several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
Here are the UN SDGs we are actively working toward:
UN Goal 1: No Poverty
Piece by Piece addresses and alleviates poverty by providing under-resourced individuals with the tools and skills they need to become self-sufficient. Through our mosaic arts program, participants, many of whom have experienced homelessness or economic hardship, gain marketable skills that allow them to generate income, build financial stability, and improve their overall quality of life. By creating a platform for participants to sell their artwork and bringing in commissions where artists earn a fair wage creating the mosaics, Piece by Piece directly combating poverty, empowering participant artists to create brighter futures for themselves and their families.
UN Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Piece by Piece is committed to fostering economic growth by creating meaningful work opportunities for vulnerable populations. We offer participants paid work through our social enterprise, enabling them to have control over their financial situation. Our focus on skill-building and entrepreneurship promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, ensuring that participants can contribute to and benefit from economic progress.
UN Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
At Piece by Piece, we believe in promoting inclusivity and reducing inequalities by creating opportunities for individuals often left out of traditional workforce systems. Our programs are designed to support individuals from under-resourced backgrounds, including veterans, women, and those facing mental health challenges, to achieve personal and professional growth. By offering a safe and supportive space for artistic expression and career development, we are leveling the playing field for all participants, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to succeed.
UN Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Piece by PIece’s work plays a significant role in creating sustainable cities and communities by using art to revitalize public spaces and enhance community engagement. Through our mosaic art commissions, we transform urban landscapes, contributing to the beautification and cultural richness of our neighborhoods. Additionally, our relocation to the Marcella Gardens building, a partnership with the Coalition for Responsible Community Development (CRCD), allows us to extend our reach to more residents and communities in South LA, ensuring that art and opportunity go hand in hand in creating vibrant, inclusive spaces.
UN Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Sustainability is a key principle of Piece by Piece. Our programs emphasize the use of recycled and repurposed materials in the creation of art, teaching participants how to make beautiful mosaics from items that would otherwise go to waste. By fostering creativity through upcycled materials, we contribute to the reduction of waste and promote more responsible consumption and production practices. This not only benefits the environment but also teaches participants valuable lessons in resourcefulness and sustainability.
UN Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
We believe in the power of collaboration to create meaningful change. Piece by Piece actively seeks out partnerships with other organizations, such as CRCD, Downtown Women’s Center and Homeboy Industries to name a few, to expand our impact and better serve our participants. These partnerships enable Piece by Piece to offer more comprehensive support, from case management services to additional training and job opportunities. By working together, we can amplify our efforts and create long-lasting, positive change in the communities we serve.
As we continue to grow, we are committed to exploring new ways to deepen our alignment with these and other Sustainable Development Goals. From empowering individuals with skills and opportunities to making our cities more beautiful and sustainable, Piece by Piece is dedicated to creating a brighter, more equitable future for all. Together, with the support of our community, partners, and participant artists, we are transforming lives through the power of art, one mosaic at a time.
