Benchmark

Benchmark is Van Go’s annual summer program for JAMS youth, ages 14-18. Each youth is partnered with a client within the community – a business, individual, or agency – to design and create a custom bench. To date, Van Go has created over 400 benches which are spread throughout our community and to locations from coast to coast, including Seattle and North Carolina.

Kids Building Success

Kids Building Success

Benchmark provides Van Go youth with the unique opportunity to learn important skills for their future in the workplace.  By conducting meetings with their bench client, each Apprentice Artist learns to ask open-ended questions, conduct a professional meeting, actively listen and translate concepts into a final product. Youth later present their client with a full-scale design blueprint and receive constructive feedback. The soft skills utilized through this process are prized by employers and help our youth to build confidence in their own capabilities.

Commission Your Own Bench

Commission Your Own Bench

Commission a bench for your home or business, or donate one to the organization of your choice. Van Go accepts reservations for the summer Benchmark program year-round. Benches are $1,500 and you can request a spot on our client list with a $100 deposit.  Our list for Summer 2024 is full! Pay a deposit to request a spot on our list for Summer 2025.

Pay a Bench Deposit or Balance
Hundreds of Benches

Hundreds of Benches

Van Go has created over 400 custom benches. Take a peek at some of them.

Benchmark Gallery View the List of All our Past Benches

AT VAN GO, WE...

Believe art making is healing