We Care Arts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to utilizing art and community to empower individuals living with developmental disabilities, substance use disorders and mental health diagnoses, has been awarded the Ohio Art Education Association (OAEA) State Distinguished Business Service Award. This prestigious accolade underscores the organization's outstanding contribution to art education and its significant impact on students, educators, and the community at large. The award was presented at the OAEA Awards Ceremony held on November 14th at the Columbus Hyatt Regency, with Eylina Ogden, We Care Arts' Outreach Coordinator, accepting the honor on behalf of the organization.
Celebrating Excellence in Art Education
The OAEA is renowned for recognizing exceptional contributions to art education. They select organizations and individuals who, through their engaging work, have inspired students, colleagues, and fellow OAEA members. These awards highlight the transformative power of art and the vital role educators and organizations play in fostering creativity and learning.
The Transition To Work Program (TTW)
We Care Arts was nominated for the award by Alexis Morgan for their outstanding "Transition To Work" program. This state-established initiative is designed to assist students with special needs, aged 16 to 22, in navigating the transition from high school to employment and independent living. We Care Arts enhances this crucial program by providing weekly art classes that reinforce essential life and job skills.
The TTW art classes offered by We Care Arts are a testament to the organization's commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. Offered at no cost to students, schools, or districts, these classes ensure that financial barriers do not hinder access to the enriching experience of art. Each student receives an individual bag filled with all necessary art supplies for their projects, along with a corresponding teacher bag and instructional video.
Moreover, to ensure that all participants can fully engage with the material, We Care Arts provides YouTube instructional video links for each art project included in the kit.
