Ripple Hub: Building Pathways for the Next Generation of Creatives
Lancaster County Community Foundation helps make the Great Social Enterprise Pitch possible, shining a spotlight on local changemakers like RippleHub.
At the 2024 Great Social Enterprise Pitch, Ripple Hub, led by co-founders Tabby Benitez and Alex Colon, took home third place for their inspiring commitment to empowering artists and young creatives. Their work bridges the gap between art, community, and career development, showing what’s possible when talent is met with opportunity.
Why They Started
Ripple Hub was built on three pillars. Community: fostering connections between artists, students, educators, and facilitators. Education: offering hands-on learning through workshops, school partnerships, and programs. Resources: connecting creatives to real-world opportunities and industry networks.
Their flagship initiative, the Ripple Creators Program, brings these pillars to life in middle and high schools across Lancaster County. Led by working artists, the program equips students with creative and technical skills while helping them form genuine relationships with mentors and peers. It’s not just art for art’s sake, it’s a pipeline into the creative industries, ensuring the next generation can see themselves in these spaces.
What They’re Building
Ripple Hub is designed for both practicing artists and emerging creatives who need access to opportunities, guidance, and support. For students, it’s a chance to see the arts as a viable career path. For working artists, it’s a way to build sustainable, impactful careers while shaping the next wave of talent.
ASSETS’ Role
Through the ASSETS Idea Incubator, Tabby and Alex revisited the fundamentals of their business model, strengthened their elevator pitch, and clarified their long-term vision. They left with a clearer understanding of the key factors driving their success and a plan to navigate potential challenges. In a full-circle Pitch moment, Ripple Hub is lending their own creative expertise to the 2025 Great Social Enterprise Pitch by booking this year’s musical guests. We’re grateful for their partnership and proud to support their ongoing work to inspire and equip the next generation of creatives.
Looking Ahead
This year, Ripple Hub expanded into six campuses with one of their longest-standing partners, River Rock Academy, and welcomed their first student intern, a talented young creative who completed the Ripple Creators Program earlier this year. Their long-term goal is to establish a dedicated space where artists and youth can collaborate, learn, and create side-by-side.
Want to Support?
Visit www.ripplecreators.com to explore their programs, sign up for updates, and see how you can help create more opportunities for Lancaster’s creative community. And be sure to mark your calendar for the 2025 Great Social Enterprise Pitch on September 4, where the next generation of purpose-driven entrepreneurs will take the stage.
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