Recognition • Support • Encouragement

Together, Let's Nourish Teachers & School Staff in the Yakima Valley

We exist to recognize, support, and encourage teachers and school staff so they feel seen, valued, and cared for in the work they do every day.

This is the heart and soul reason behind Artos.

Five Stars

"Last year was very tough for me. The treats you left always brightened my day. Thank you for everything you do!

Delia

Five Stars

"Thank you so much for the thoughtful gifts! Your kindness made my week!"

Emily

Five Stars

"Words can't even begin to describe the amount of inspiration you bring."

Coyner

Five Stars

"Thank you so much for your generosity to McKinley. You truly make our job so much happier and appreciated."

Scott

Five Stars

"Thank you for all you do for our staff! You are our angel sent to take care of us. You make everyone feel so loved. We appreciate you!"

Amanda

Five Stars

"I so appreciate your kindness, care and support during the school year!"

Brenda

Five Stars

"The you for my birthday gift. I appreciate all Artos is doing for Barge-Lincoln school and staff. You make us feel valued and appreciated."

Karen

About Artos

Caring for the People Who Care for Our Students

Recognizing the Work That Often Goes Unseen

Artos is on a mission to recognize teachers and school staff who quietly pour their hearts into students every day. Through simple, thoughtful acts of appreciation, we remind educators and school staff that their work matters and that they are valued.

Various colorful birthday cards including designs with candles, a car, library card motif, and a rainbow background with a drawing of a man in a top hat.

Supporting Classrooms in Practical Ways

Teachers and staff share what they need most in their classrooms, and Artos helps make it happen. From basic supplies to special resources, we step in so educators don’t have to reach into their own pockets.

Woman with glasses and a black and white plaid shirt smiling and looking to the side in an office setting. Just one teacher Artos non-profit supports.

Encouragement
That Builds Real Connection

Encouragement goes beyond gifts. It’s presence, listening, and showing up. Artos encourages teachers and staff through personal connections that remind them they are more than test scores or job titles.

Two women wearing reflective safety vests sitting and smiling on a gray couch with patterned and solid pillows, under a framed painting of trees in the new lounge provided by Artos Yakima Non-profit.

Built from Lived Experience

Artos was founded by people who understand the challenges educators face. The heart of our work comes from firsthand experience in schools, where burnout is real and encouragement can make all the difference in the world.

Smiling Amy Roberts in glasses and gray hoodie stands next to Russ Roberts in a black and green checkered shirt and cap with a forest background.

Proud Founders: Amy & Russ Roberts

Focused on the Yakima Valley

Our work is local by design. By focusing on schools in the Yakima Valley, Artos builds meaningful relationships and long-term impact where teachers and school staff need it most.

Young girl Amy with blonde hair tied up, wearing a short patterned dress with a large white collar and black bow, standing outdoors in front of a brick wall.

Amy • McKinley Elementary • Yakima, WA

It Started in a Classroom

Before they were founders, Amy and Russ were students shaped by teachers who believed in them. Artos was born from that gratitude and a desire to make sure today’s educators feel seen and encouraged.

Portrait of a smiling young Russ with short brown hair and missing front teeth against a neutral background.

Russ • North Shore Elementary • Big Bear Lake, CA

How It Works

Here's How Together We Make a Difference

These levels show the growing depth of support Artos provides each Yakima school, with regular updates on schools and people served so you can see the measurable impact. Levels 5 and 6 are our future vision, and with your support, more schools can move up and experience that full level of care.

Join the Movement

Help Teachers and School Staff Feel Seen and Supported
Four women smiling and standing side by side in an office, each holding a small gift box with a colorful Valentine’s Day label, wearing matching dark gray “Communication looks different for everyone” t-shirts.

Our Impact

The Difference
Your Support Makes

27+

Schools Supported Across
the Yakima Valley

Artos currently supports teachers and school staff at multiple elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the Yakima Valley through monthly recognition, classroom support, and encouragement.

1042+

Teachers and Staff
Cared for Each Month

From full-school partnerships to individual educators, Artos provides ongoing recognition and support to teachers and staff who might otherwise go unseen in their day-to-day work.

10%

Currently Reaching Teachers and School Staff Goal

Today, Artos supports a small percentage of the teachers and school staff we long to encourage. There are many more educators who deserve to feel seen and valued. With your support, we can grow and reach them.

Thank you

Our Generous Sponsors

Gold five-pointed star

Ongoing
Partner

Get Involved

Powered by Generosity and Community

Artos is made possible through donors and volunteers who believe caring for educators strengthens entire communities. Together, we create moments of hope, gratitude, and support throughout the school year.

Child's pink thank you card decorated with hand-drawn flowers, hearts, a sun, and handwritten messages saying 'Thank You So Much' and 'Thank you for the things you gave us.' An Artos appreciation note.

Volunteer

Volunteer With Artos

Volunteers gather each month to assemble appreciation treats and write handwritten notes that are delivered to teachers and school staff throughout the school year. It’s a hands-on way to help encouragement reach classrooms.

March

March 10, 2026

1:00 PM
to
3:00 PM

April

April 1, 2026

1:00 PM
to
3:00 PM

May

May 5, 2026

1:00 PM
to
3:00 PM

June

June 9, 2026

1:00 PM
to
3:00 PM
Join us!

No Sign-Up Required

Volunteer sessions take place at the Harman Center at Gailleon Park. There’s no need to sign up; just come by on the dates and times listed above. We look forward to seeing you and preparing monthly encouragement together.

Contact Us

Let's Start a Conversation

Reach Out to Us

Send us messages, ask questions, or share your thoughts. We value your input and look forward to hearing from you! All form fields are required.

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Your Support Makes a Difference

Support Us Through Your Generosity

FAQ

Answers to Your Burning Questions

Who does Artos serve?

Artos serves teachers and school staff in the Yakima Valley public school system, including classroom teachers, counselors, aides, custodians, and support staff.

What does Artos do?

Artos exists to recognize, support, and encourage teachers and school staff through monthly appreciation, classroom supplies, and personal encouragement throughout the school year.

How are donations used?

Donations fund monthly thank-you gifts, classroom supplies, birthday cards, encouragement items, and special projects that directly support teachers and school staff.

How can I support a teacher or staff member?

You can sponsor a teacher or staff member for the school year, fund a special school project, give where the need is greatest, or volunteer your time.

How much does it cost to sponsor a teacher or staff member?

Sponsorship options range from recognition-only support to full-year support that includes monthly appreciation, classroom supplies, and encouragement.

Do teachers and staff request the supplies they receive?

Yes. At the beginning of the school year, teachers and staff complete a questionnaire sharing what supplies they need most in their classrooms.

Which schools does Artos support?

Artos currently supports educators at multiple schools across the Yakima Valley, with a focus on building long-term relationships and expanding support as resources grow.

Can I volunteer with Artos?

Yes. Volunteers help with creating monthly gifts, organizing supplies, and supporting special projects throughout the school year.

Is Artos a nonprofit organization?

Yes. Artos is a 501 3C nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting teachers and school staff in the Yakima Valley.

Can I donate supplies instead of money?

Yes. Artos accepts donated supplies through approved giving platforms, making it easy to contribute items teachers and staff need most.

How can I get in touch with Artos?

You can reach out through the contact form on this website or email Amy directly at amy@artosyakima.com. We’d love to connect and answer any additional questions.