Over the last two months the drop-in center has seen many colorful art pieces appearing on our walls. Youth and staff are coloring mandalas, creating original pieces and engaging in rich conversations. This increase in artistic endeavors is due in large part to a new partnership with WEAVE. WEAVE is a local nonprofit providing services to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. In a new partnership, WEAVE is working to identify and address the needs of homeless and LGBTQ youth.
Michelle is a counselor with WEAVE who runs a weekly art group at our drop-in center. Youth are engaged in art and discussing a range of personal issues with the support of Wind staff and Michelle. This low risk type of group has proven successful in both popularity and engagement. Youth are excited for group, proud of their work and enjoy the time dialoguing with each other and staff. Many youth are also asking for additional supportive services and seeking out therapeutic support with Wind therapists and Michelle.
Partnerships like this help keep programming relevant, fluctuating and offer unique opportunities for staff to participant with youth to increase rapport and relationships. Staff is always working to increase feeling of safety, identify areas for harm reduction and model healthy communication skills.
Learn more about WEAVE and their programs on their website!
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