Rainey Institute

One hundred years ago, the Rainey Institute was founded by a pioneering social worker, Anna Edwards, and a philanthropist, Eleanor B. Rainey. Mrs. Rainey, deeply impressed by the work being accomplished, financed Miss Edwards’ program, and paid for the construction of a building to house its operations. This building near the intersection of East 55th Street and Superior Avenue in Cleveland is still the home of what was named the Rainey Institute in her honor.

Rainey’s history spans the earliest years of the car, electricity, the telephone, two world wars, a depression and the wondrous advances of medicine and technology. Yet through all these changes, families are still drawn together by theatre arts, educational opportunities, friendships, and the joy of achievement.

Rainey Institute celebrates the talents and strong character of our young people who use their outstanding abilities to provide quality artistic experiences for appreciative audiences.

Rainey Institute is passionate about the power of the arts to meaningfully transform young lives. We are a community of dedicated teachers, artists, students, parents, board members and volunteers who embrace the arts as a vehicle for nurturing creativity and goodness in young souls.

We recognize potential in all of its forms. We welcome the child who has no arts background just as readily as the child who has naturally perfect pitch when they sing. We embrace all learners regardless of where they fall on the continuum of natural artistic ability.

We understand the value that a safe, enriching community-center setting brings the lives of children.

While the arts is our primary focus, we also work hard to ensure we are doing everything we can to support our students. Nutritious meals/snacks are provided during the afterschool program and during summer camp. We offer homework help throughout the year and, most importantly, we ensure children have good role-models to interact with each time they visit.