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Spreading Joy Through Creativity: We Care Arts Outreach at Local Cancer Centers

Kelli Campbell • August 22, 2024

Spreading Joy Through Creativitiy

In a world where the healing power of art is often underestimated, We Care Arts Outreach program is making a significant difference. By extending our services to local cancer centers, we are bringing a spark of joy and creativity to patients and their families during some of their most challenging times.

The Heart of Our Mission

At We Care Arts, we believe in the transformative power of art. Our mission is to empower healing through art and community. We are thrilled to see how our efforts are received with open arms at local cancer centers. Every visit is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the undeniable impact of creative engagement.

Bringing Art to Healing Spaces

Our Outreach Coordinator, Claudia Burnell, plays a pivotal role in this initiative. With a dedicated heart and a car filled with art kits, she visits cancer centers regularly, ensuring that patients and their families have access to a variety of creative projects. The goal is simple: to provide a meaningful distraction from the rigors of treatment and a medium through which emotions can be expressed and shared.

The Patients' Response

The response from patients is always heartwarming and affirming. As soon as our Outreach Coordinator walks through the doors with the art cart, there is an unmistakable shift in the atmosphere. Faces light up, conversations spark, and a sense of anticipation fills the room. For many, these art sessions become a highlight of their treatment days—a moment to relax, create, and connect.

One of the nurses shared, “The patients love seeing the art cart come around. You definitely make a difference in their days here.” -KMC Nurse"

Family Involvement

Our program extends beyond the patients to include their family members as well. Cancer treatment affects the entire family, and we recognize the importance of providing a creative outlet for everyone involved. Families work on projects together, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience. This collaborative creativity helps to strengthen bonds and provides a much-needed break from the stress and anxiety that can accompany medical treatments.

A mother and daughter who shared an incredible bond were so excited to make fingerprint keychains,

already knowing which colors each other were going to choose and what they were going to write on the

back. As they created, they were full of joy, sharing smiles and laughter. They loved their finished keychains,

exclaiming, "That’s so cute. WE'RE so cute!" Though not visible in the picture, they wrote "XOXO" on the

back, a phrase with a very special meaning to them. Kala has it tattooed on her wrist, and Pam plans to

do the same after her treatment. It was such a special moment.

The Therapeutic Benefits

The therapeutic benefits of art are well-documented. Engaging in creative activities can reduce stress, improve mental health, and provide a sense of accomplishment. For cancer patients, these benefits are particularly valuable. Art allows them to express emotions they might find difficult to verbalize, offering a therapeutic release that complements their physical treatment.

Looking Ahead

We Care Arts is committed to continuing and expanding our outreach to cancer centers. We are constantly seeking new ways to enhance our program, whether by introducing new types of art projects or by increasing the frequency of our visits. Our goal is to ensure that as many patients and families as possible can experience the joy and healing that art can bring.

In conclusion, the We Care Arts Outreach program is more than just a delivery of art supplies; it is a delivery of hope, joy, and community. By bringing art into the healing spaces of local cancer centers, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. And every smile, every piece of art created, and every moment of connection reaffirms our commitment to this vital work.

Cancer centers, dialysis centers, and similar facilities benefit greatly from our outreach services. If you would like to support our efforts or learn more about our program, please contact Claudia Burnell at outreach@wecarearts.org.

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