|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Our MissionThe mission of ArtBridge is to encourage creativity and self-expression within a supportive environment. By nurturing imagination, hope and self-esteem, the program strives to combat the despair of homelessness. Each year, ArtBridge programs serve more than 2,000 children whose families are indigent, in crisis, and struggling to meet their most basic needs. The children’s backgrounds are diverse and multi-cultural. They have experienced family chaos, neglect, and often, domestic abuse. Some have been abandoned and are living alone at the shelters. Our ProgramWeekly, hour-long ArtBridge sessions provide a safe, structured space free from judgment and expectation, allowing children to discover their creative voices and experience the joy of making art. ArtBridge programs primarily serve lower school-age children, but in some shelters, programs for adolescents are also held. Through collaboration, ArtBridge presents musical workshops to introduce the children to a variety of music genres. These sessions teach the children performance skills and guide them through a concert performance. Founding director Jo Ann Williams is a certified, trained art therapist and licensed professional counselor with extensive experience. In 2003, Williams was named “Outstanding Volunteer of the Year” by the Houston Area Women’s Center. Williams supervises thorough training for the program’s volunteer art facilitators. Our SuccessRecent national studies have underscored the impact of arts programs on the lives of young people, particularly at-risk children. Evaluations of ArtBridge programs reveal positive changes in the children, including improvement in school work, increased ability to tolerate frustration, improved focus, cooperation with others, and more open communication with peers and adult supervisors. Through ArtBridge programs, gifted and talented students are also identified and given special support in the application process to private schools, as well as scholarships to Glassell School of Art and Houston Center for Contemporary Craft. ArtBridge facilitators work with social workers to support the children, and referrals are made for psychological counseling and medical needs. These opportunities have changed the children’s lives and brought hope to their families. Our DirectorBeverly Bentley, MA, LPC, Executive Director Our Board Of DirectorsSusan Japhet Scotty, President Our Continued GrowthArtBridge is funded entirely by the generosity and kindness of individuals, organizations, corporations and foundations.
|
 |
