The partnership with Uniting Parents included my proposed youth art program and assisting with existing programs. Uniting Parents is an extension of The Coalition of Heath Services in Amarillo which is a parent case management program for families of children with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities. My internship gave me opportunity to bring art to some of the youth serviced by Uniting Parents, kids ages twelve and up referred by their case workers were invited to participate in the art program. The art program included Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, and Recycled art. The arts enable us to have experiences we can have from no other source and through such experiences discover the range and variety of what we are capable of feeling. Students worked in several mediums and were introduced to the color wheel and how through color emotion can be expressed, they were introduced to the works of famous artists and how these artist used art to express thoughts and emotions. In creating Sculpture art students discovered that there is more than one right answer, and multiple points of view. Art builds confidence. Even with physical, emotional or learning challenges, they can experience success in the arts. This was very evident for those who participated in the program. Every child felt pride in his or her original artistic creations. Art gives hope, fights injustice, creates a bridge in community differences and create places of understanding and healing.
Maria Garcia and everyone at Uniting Parents are doing great work for the community, during my time with them I was introduced to many of the organizations they have partnerships with. I was privileged to attend a couple of conferences and represented Uniting Parents at the Buddy Walk. The Recycled Closet is a program offering the families they serve to shop for new and gently used clothing free of charge. Many local retailers donate new clothes to this program. In creating flyers, calling clients to schedule appointment and helping them shop the giveaway I got to know and serve people in the program. My time in this internship allowed me to investment in our community and impact the people who live in it.
