KEEPING THE DEMONS AT BAY

When someone experiences a personal crisis, it is common for them to withdraw and isolate. As depression and anxiety increase, life can turn dark and overwhelming. Healing in Arts seeks to reach individuals in crisis by drawing them back into community. In our art programs, people learn to express themselves in unique ways, make new friends, and experience hope.

Consider the story of Laszlo Szalay, USMC veteran: “Three years ago, I lost Emperor, my K-9 partner and Navy SEAL Team-3 war dog. When Pamela Alderman invited me to be part of the art exhibit created specifically for veterans, I was not sure if I could do it. I felt nervous beyond words. But this creative journey has opened a new avenue for healing and given me a new way to express my feelings. Every day, I fight my demons. Some days, I feel as if my demons may win. During the past few months, while I built and rebuilt my sculpture piece, my new art mission gave me the drive and courage to put my sculpture out there in the world. Even when I was distressed and tired, the artistic process helped me stay strong and kept my demons at bay. After experiencing the love and support from you, your team, and the other participating veteran artists, my heart is full. Thank you for creating an art exhibit specifically for veterans and giving us a voice.”

To empower individuals like Laszlo through art, we founded Healing in Arts in 2016. In 2022, we established Healing in Arts as a 501(c)(3) donor-funded nonprofit organization. This ministry serves a wide variety of vulnerable individuals, such as veterans, profoundly disabled children, incarcerated youth, sex trafficked teens, and individuals facing homelessness and hunger.

This year Healing in Arts broadened its scope to reach significantly more people. Currently, with our partners, our creative care art has reached people from Michigan, California, Florida, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, Poland, and Ukraine. But Healing in Arts cannot continue to serve or extend our reach without your help.

Will you join our team by supporting Healing in Arts with a donation? Your generosity will purchase art-in-a-box kits and ship, frame, and install our community-based projects. Help make a difference through art with your gift of $50, $100, $250, or even $500. Your financial gift will touch real people, like Laszlo, with real impact. You can also help Healing in Arts by referring a friend! We are always in need of new donors and volunteers.