---
title: COMPAS
description: Minnesota nonprofit that brings arts experiences to schools, youth and communities through teaching artists.
url: https://www.artsume.com/o/compas
type: organization
createdAt: "2026-10-16"
updatedAt: "2026-10-16"
organizationType: Non-profit
location: St Paul, MN, United States
website: https://compas.org/
yearFounded: 1974
---

# COMPAS

*Non-profit • St Paul, MN, United States*

## About

Minnesota nonprofit that brings arts experiences to schools, youth and communities through teaching artists.

COMPAS is a Minnesota nonprofit that puts creativity in the hands of people across the state, with the goal that everyone has the opportunity to make and experience art. Its mission is to deliver creative experiences that unleash the potential within all people, and it envisions a Minnesota where everyone has access to creative opportunities that enrich lives and communities.

The organization grew out of a Poets in the Schools program begun in 1967 and became COMPAS in 1974. It later merged with Young Audiences of Minnesota in 2009 and VSA Minnesota in 2018. A roster of more than 130 teaching artists works with schools and youth, out-of-school and after-school programs, museums and libraries, and older adult communities.

COMPAS also runs youth programs such as the COMPAS Anthology of Student Writing, Emerging Young Artists and youth spoken word showcases. It is a National Guild member and meets the Charities Review Council standards for nonprofit transparency.

## Details

- **Founded:** 1974
- **Address:** 450 Syndicate St N, St Paul, MN 55104
- **Website:** https://compas.org/
- **Social Media:** facebook: https://www.facebook.com/COMPASMN/, instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compas_mn/, linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compasmn/

## Programs

View current programs from COMPAS on Artsume: https://www.artsume.com/o/compas