May: A Letter From the Executive Director
Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month & the Impact of Your Support
Dear Friends of We Care Arts,
As we welcome May, we also embrace Mental Health Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding around mental health challenges that affect millions of individuals worldwide. At We Care Arts, this month holds special significance because at our core we know the true impact art can have on the mental well-being of those we serve throughout the year.
It’s staggering to consider that 1 in 5 Americans grapple with mental health issues, and for individuals with developmental disabilities, this statistic rises to 1 in 3. These numbers underscore the pressing need for support, understanding, and resources right here in the Greater Miami Valley.
However, amidst these challenges, we have 40+ years of proof of the transformative power of our mission, centered on art and community. A recent Mayo Clinic article highlighted the remarkable effects of art on the brain. It’s not just about creating or observing art; it’s about the profound neurological changes that occur. Art has the ability to elevate serotonin levels, increase blood flow to the pleasure centers of the brain, and inspire new ways of thinking. These changes can contribute to a decrease in hospitalizations, reduced reliance on medical interventions, and an overall improvement in well-being.
So, now that the Mayo Clinic and others have finally caught up to provide medical evidence of what We Care Arts has believed from our inception, I invite you to join us in celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month by supporting We Care Arts right now. Your generous contributions enable us to continue providing vital art programs that uplift spirits, foster creativity, and promote healing among adults living with developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, and mental health diagnoses not just during Mental Health Awareness Month but each and every month throughout the year!
As Jen S shared with her “In Bloom” video “from really dark things can come really beautiful things and there can be light even when you are going through hard things.” There can be light, there is light. . . thanks to you. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of people in our community. Together we are painting a brighter, more hopeful future for all.
With heartfelt gratitude for your on-going support,
Katie Neubert
Executive Director
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