Our Mission

Arts Change Everything is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bringing people together through the transformative power of the arts. As the umbrella organization for Yo Leo Bookshop and the Elmhurst Book Swap, we create spaces where community, creativity, and connection thrive.

Yo Leo, a project of Arts Change Everything, is committed to building a vibrant, welcoming space in Elmhurst, Queens. Here, neighbors gather to learn, grow, and connect. Through books, art, and shared experiences, we foster creativity, celebrate diversity, and nurture a lifelong love of learning.

We envision Yo Leo as a thriving community hub—a bookshop and arts space where everyone feels at home. By uplifting diverse voices and stories, we aim to inspire curiosity, spark creativity, and nurture a sense of belonging for all who walk through our doors.

Imagine a place in Elmhurst where stories come alive, creativity flourishes, and neighbors become friends. Yo Leo is more than a bookshop—it’s a community living room, a stage for local voices, and a launchpad for dreams. Here, poetry readings, writing workshops, book swaps, and storytelling events bring people together, all under one roof.