Self-Worth through Storytelling.
Youth Workshops
AI Comic Labs
This page offers key information about our AI Comic Labs Workshop, which empowers students in grades 5-12 in Rochester, NY, to create their own comics while focusing on storytelling, character development, and AI technology.
Working with Youth?
This program is open to all youth in grades 5-12 in Rochester, New York. If you are a non-profit organization that serves youth, a RCSD teacher, or librarian in Rochester you can participate and are welcome to apply!
Want to Donate?
If you would like to make a tax deductible, financial contribution to pay for scholarships that go directly to youth to participate in the AI Comic Labs program please setup a time to chat with Chris Cooley (founder and CEO of Cooley Comics)!
Apply for 2025-2026!
We are currently raising capital to provide scholarships for the upcoming school year. Our scholarships are issued on a ‘first-come, first-serve’ basis. Please apply ASAP and be on the lookout for emails from us once our funding is announced! If you have funding and would like to book a workshop, please also do so ASAP (note: We need at least 4-weeks to prepare, a deposit is required for paid sessions, and slots are limited)!
Empowering Stories, Inspiring Futures.
Let’s Change the Narrative.
In Rochester, youth face significant workforce challenges, with over 30% unemployment among those aged 16-24 and nearly half of the city’s children living in poverty. The lack of access to career development opportunities, particularly in high-demand fields like digital arts and technology, exacerbates this issue. Without intervention, we risk creating a “lost generation” that is ill-equipped to navigate the evolving job market, underscoring the urgent need for targeted support and skill development.
“My job placement mentor told me, ‘There aren’t any design jobs for YOU in Rochester. I learned from experience at Cooley Comics and now I have a job as a digital artist here!”
Tony (Rochester, NY)
“I will take what I learned in this experience and apply it to my life. I hope to use this experience as a stepping stone as I continue the rest of the academic year and beyond.“
Sara (Rochester, NY)
“My son want’s to be an author. This lab introduced him to what’s possible and was a step toward his dream. AI is amazing, it took the words out of his head and helped him get it out.”
Deidra (Rochester, NY)
“I was able to create my own character and a storyline that will showcase my future.”
Somaiij (Rochester, NY)
“I enjoyed tapping into my daughter’s world. Being on the spectrum, she is always in her own mind. It was incredible to see what is in her head come to life and be accessible to me.”
Katrina (Rochester, NY)
The Big Picture
Cooley Comics is implementing a growth strategy to empower youth in Rochester by connecting education with high-paying creative careers through innovative workshops and after-school programs that focus on job training, skills development, and personal growth. This approach integrates creative arts and AI technology, aiming to strengthen the community and local economy.
$300
can change a life
Investing in our programs is more than a financial contribution; it is a commitment to creating massive positive change. Together, we can empower young individuals, build a more skilled workforce, and foster economic growth in Rochester. The time to act is now, and with your support, we can make a lasting impact.
We have reduced our cost to only $300 per student and your donation can change a life!
Thank You to Our Current Partners:
Let’s Get LIT & ESL!
Many thanks to our friend and Fiscal Sponsor, Clianda Florence and her organization Let’s Get LIT. Her support and the generous funding of ESL Federal Credit Union Community Foundation have made it possible for us to continue summer programming in 2025 and continue to make jobs available for youth in our training programs.
Thank you to our 2024-25 partner, FFRPL. Our inaugural program was made possible through the generous support of the Friends & Foundation of the Rochester Public Library.
