March is Autism Awareness Month, and as the first signs of spring begin to show, I find myself thinking about growth, renewal, and all the beautiful things taking shape here at We Care Arts.
Our studios have been buzzing with creativity. Artist-clients have been working on collaborative upcycled art projects, stamped clay medals for the Run for Lilly event, and creating vibrant wet-felt flowers during a recent Visiting Artist session. Our Board President also proudly represented We Care Arts at Leadership Dayton’s Board Match Day, helping introduce our mission to new community leaders and advocates.
And in true “Katie trying to be sneaky” fashion, I attempted to slip into Zone 1 for a candid photo of everyone hard at work. I was immediately caught by what felt like half the class. So much for the unposed shot! But honestly, that silly moment says so much about who we are. At We Care Arts, connection is real, creativity is alive, and joy is hard to miss.
At the same time, we know this is not an easy season. Funding is challenging for arts organizations, for health and human services, and for so many in our community. But together, we are leaning into our mission. Together, we are putting people first. Together, we are creating spaces of dignity, healing, and belonging.
One artist-client recently thanked us for the new studio chairs made possible by a community grant, and I have not stopped thinking about it.
Chairs sound so simple. In truth, no one needed to thank us for chairs. But what that gratitude revealed to me was something much deeper. It was not really about the furniture. It was about the feeling that someone had noticed what would make participation easier, safer, and more comfortable. It was about knowing their needs mattered. Too often, the people we serve are asked to settle for worn-out, wobbly, or “good enough.” At We Care Arts, we believe they deserve better. They deserve spaces that are welcoming, accessible, and affirming.
