Cleo L. Smalls

Cleo Smalls is the part-time Community Engagement Manager for ARTZ Philadelphia, where she leads programs such as ARTZ in the Neighborhood, Music in the Neighborhood, and the newly launched Café for Care Partners & Creative Connections. Since joining the team in 2021, Cleo has been instrumental in fostering diversity and strengthening connections within the Northwest Philadelphia and Hunting Park communities.

Also serving as the Center Director for Center in the Park, Cleo bridges gaps in aging-focused organizations by bringing ARTZ Philadelphia’s programs to local senior centers and community resource hubs. Cleo serves on the board of the Pennsylvania Association of Senior Centers (PASC) and is a founding member of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Black/African American Community Action Network (CAN) in Philadelphia. A graduate of Arcadia University, she began her career as a recreational assistant for adults living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. 

Reflecting on her work with ARTZ Philadelphia, she shared,”I’m proud to be part of the ARTZ Philly team because we provide free resources and unique programs for older adults in underserved communities. We believe, and demonstrate, that life continues after a dementia diagnosis, bringing support, hope, and, most of all, joy to families across Philadelphia.”