Arts for All:
Improving Mental Health through the Arts
I am alive today because of my involvement in the arts.
During my second year of college, I joined the 1-in-5 women who are sexually assaulted on their college campus. Through this incredibly dark time, I found tremendous healing from singing, dancing, and acting, and I believe that I would not be standing here today if it were not for the arts. Arts for All has become my mission to make sure everyone, no matter ability, background, or socio-economic status, have access to the power of the arts.
I believe that mental health impacts everyone, and the arts are a powerful way of healing, even through the hardest times. Since 2019, I have worked with over 20 theatre companies and high school theatre programs to create accessible arts performances and train actors on how to create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all. In 2021 I joined the inaugural Sensory-Friendly Task Force through Different Dynamics, which I now lead, and later became a board member for the organization. I am excited to continue growing this initiative through speaking events, professional panels, and training programs.
Arts For All Today
I have created opportunities of education focused on cultivating a space that is safe, welcoming, and inclusive through my partnerships with school arts programs and adult theater companies. For younger students, I provide a fun 30 minute workshop with movement and activities that introduces them to the arts.
For older students and theater communities, I take accessibility to the arts to the next level, as we discuss how to create inclusive environments both on and off stage through sensory-friendly performances, ASL and Audio-Description, and more. Both programs promote building environments where everyone can feel included.
Ready to get involved?
I'd love to bring Arts for All programing to your school, community organization, or Girl Scout Troop! The program can be adapted to fit whatever interests and needs your students have. Let's connect and get started!