Van‑Go Wagon Co., founded by educator, small business owner, and mom Kelly Fitzpatrick, alongside her sister and business partner, Rachel Lennon, has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund a transformed mobile art studio dedicated to delivering creative experiences at no cost to children and families across the Hudson Valley.
Van-Go is a vintage-inspired mobile creative studio for kids. On the surface, it looks like a bright Volkswagen bus full of art supplies, imaginative fun, and playful energy popping up at birthday parties, festivals, and school events. But there’s more: every private booking helps fund free mobile outreach to kids in need, from underserved areas, to those impacted by grief or trauma, or just when a little extra care and comfort is needed. Funds will primarily cover the purchase and customization of the van, allowing the program to hit the road at the end of August 2025.
Key Highlights:
- Mission-first model: Private events help fund free, open-access art workshops in parks, libraries, community centers, and during local crises extending reach and equity throughout the region.
- Credibility & roots: Kelly brings over 20 years of experience as an educator, including both teaching and leading experience, driven by a passion for using creativity to foster joy, resilience, and connection.
- Campaign goal & timing: The Kickstarter campaign seeks $23,400 to secure and outfit the van, with rollout of free events scheduled for late summer 2025.
- Early-backer perks:
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- $5 Digital Coloring Page
- $50 Pop-Up Playdate tickets for an Event Preview
- $350 Discounted private party for a playgroup, birthday, business activation, etc.
- $1,000 Great Art Giveback: Sponsorship credit for a free public event
“As an experienced educator that began in a school with “art on a cart,” and ultimately upon leaving public education, when I began bringing my own supplies on a red wagon to backyard groups and local festivals, I have seen firsthand how joyful, healing, and connective mobile art experiences can be. What I’ve learned is this: the biggest barrier isn’t interest or ability – it’s access. Van-Go was born from the belief that every child deserves the chance to create, no matter where they are,” says Fitzpatrick.
