Connection is the foundation. Creativity is the tool. Impact is the result.
Through storytelling, environmental engagement, community collaboration, education, and creative programming, herARTS in Action has connected with students, educators, organizations, and communities locally and globally through projects rooted in creativity, access, systems awareness, and human connection.
From environmental literacy initiatives and public art projects to author visits, workshops, speaking engagements, and global community partnerships, our work is designed to create meaningful experiences that connect people, stories, and systems in ways that inspire learning, collaboration, and action.
Featured Praise of Only Rain Down the Drain
“By following Reva the raindrop from the clouds to storm drains and into rivers and lakes, Sarah Drake gives children a clear view of how water systems actually work. She connects that journey to a lesson about responsibility that children can understand and act on. This is a strong, practical book that belongs in any classroom or home that takes learning seriously. Just as important, it helps raise a generation that sees environmental stewardship not as optional, but as a shared duty. Through vivid storytelling and imagery, this thoughtful book connects community, environment, and identity, inviting young readers to see how their actions can help protect the world they inherit.”
~ Lee Hawkins, 2022 Pulitzer Prize finalist, former Wall Street Journal reporter, and author of I Am Nobody’s Slave: How Uncovering My Family’s History Set Me Free (HarperCollins)
“Only Rain Down the Drain is a beautifully crafted book that brings together striking collage artwork and a powerful, real-world message. It’s both engaging and quietly impactful—reminding us how small, everyday actions can shape the world around us.”
~ Natacha Karam, Actress (The Brave, 9-1-1: Lone Star) and Teaching Artist, Creativity Crew
“I learned that the rain that goes into storm drains goes a lot of places.”
~ Elementary Student
“I loved the artwork.”
When asked what she remembered most from the story: “Only rain goes down the drain.”
When asked if she would recommend the book to friends: “Yes!”
And when asked if she would change anything: “Add bunnies.”
~ Kindergartener
“You’re going to buy this, right mom?”
~ Pre-K student
Community Impact Highlights
Through storytelling, environmental engagement, arts programming, education initiatives, public art, and cross-sector collaboration, herARTS in Action has engaged thousands of students, educators, families, artists, and community members across local and global communities.
Impact highlights include:
- Environmental literacy and watershed education initiatives
- Stormdrain mural projects and public art engagement
- Educational sponsorships for girls in Burkina Faso since 2018
- Clean water and sanitation initiatives impacting more than 150,000 people
- Arts programming serving students across Minnesota, Washington DC, Maryland, and New York City
- Community-centered murals, workshops, and teaching artist residencies
- International storytelling, cultural exchange, and educational engagement initiatives
- Local, national, and international speaking engagements and collaborative partnerships
Speaking & Public Engagement
herARTS in Action and founder Sarah Drake have participated in:
- Community and environmental initiatives
- School and educational programming
- Public speaking and facilitation
- Panels and collaborative dialogue
- Arts and education conferences
- Environmental and systems-centered engagement
- International and cross-sector conversations
Publications & Writing
Sarah’s writing explores storytelling, cultural identity, environmental engagement, systems thinking, creativity, global partnership, and community-centered impact through articles, essays, collaborative memoir work, exhibition publications, and educational storytelling.
Art & Exhibition Highlights
Sarah Drake’s artwork and creative projects have been featured through exhibitions, artist residencies, public art initiatives, community collaborations, educational programming, and interdisciplinary engagement projects connecting storytelling, environmental awareness, systems thinking, and community participation.
Her work has included:
- Mixed media and collage exhibitions
- Community-centered public art projects
- Storm drain mural initiatives
- Environmental art engagement
- Teaching artist residencies
- Collaborative arts programming
- Interactive workshops and installations
- Arts integration and educational partnerships
Media & Press Opportunities
For interviews, podcasts, speaking opportunities, publications, collaborations, or media inquiries, please visit the Contact page or email: [email protected].
Press & Features
Coming soon! Explore interviews, articles, podcasts, features, media coverage, and photos connected to herARTS in Action, environmental education, storytelling, community engagement, art, and collaborative initiatives.