About Us

Painter Pals, a community-centric nonprofit was established in Oakland, California, and has extended its mission to Seattle, Washington. We are committed to offering free supplies along with art therapy enriching grade school children, teachers, school districts, and after-school programs at no cost. Our initiatives aim to level the playing field, providing free resources to children who may not have had the luxury of creative outlets. Through art, we establish meaningful connections with youth who face challenges articulating their experiences, fostering an environment where every child has the opportunity to express themselves and heal.

Mission

Our mission is to empower underprivileged children through the transformative power of art, fostering creativity, emotional resilience, and cultural awareness. By providing access to quality art education and wellness programs, we aim to inspire and uplift young minds, helping them to express themselves, build confidence, and connect with their communities.

Program

Our program “Sound of Body and Mind” is a therapeutic art workshop offered by our nonprofit organization, providing free art supplies and materials to teachers, after school programs for grades k-5. Designed to promote social emotional learning, behavioral developmental skills, self-expression, relaxation, and personal growth, our program offers a variety of art activities using high-quality art supplies and art sets. Students will have access to painting materials, including an 180 piece paint set, with colored pencils, crayons, and markers well as a 4, 7, 12 week course curriculum. Through engaging in these activities, students will have the opportunity to explore their creativity, express themselves in safe environment artistically, and experience the therapeutic benefits of art. Over the course of seven weeks, the students will engage in a range of art activities that encourage reflection, creativity, and mindfulness. They will explore the concept of masks and hidden identities, create mandalas to enhance relaxation and focus, connect with nature through art, develop collage-making skills, practice mindful coloring for stress relief, use painting as a means of expressing emotions, and experiment with marker techniques to expand their artistic repertoire, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for artistic exploration.

What We Do

1. Art Therapy Programs:

Emotional and Mental Health Support: We offer art therapy sessions led by professional art therapists. These sessions help children express their emotions, reduce stress, and build essential life skills such as resilience and problem-solving. Through creative activities like drawing, painting, and sculpting, children can explore their feelings in a safe, supportive environment.
Personalized Care: Our programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each child, ensuring that every participant receives the care and attention they need to thrive.

2. The “Hunt for More” Initiative:

Art Supplies Distribution: This flagship program addresses the lack of art resources in schools by providing comprehensive art kits to students. These kits include everything a child needs to explore their creativity, from paints and brushes to sketchbooks and pencils.
Supporting Educators: Teachers can easily sign up for these kits, which are designed to integrate seamlessly into their existing curricula. This initiative not only supports children’s artistic development but also enhances the overall educational experience.

3. Teacher Support and Professional Development:

Empowering Educators: We provide teachers with art supplies and resources, helping them bring more creativity and engagement into their classrooms. We support educators to learn how to incorporate art therapy techniques into their teaching to better support their students’ emotional and social development.

4. Community Engagement:

Partnerships with Local Organizations: Painter Pals works with community centers, shelters, and after-school programs to extend our reach beyond the classroom. By collaborating with local organizations, we ensure that even more children have access to the healing power of art.
Collaborative Events: We host art exhibitions and community events that showcase the work of the children we serve, giving them a platform to express themselves and share their stories with a broader audience.

Why It Matters

Art is more than just a hobby or a way to pass the time; it’s a powerful tool for self-expression and healing. For children who face challenges like poverty, trauma, or social isolation, art can be a lifeline. It helps them process their experiences, build confidence, and develop a sense of identity. By supporting their creativity, Painter Pals is helping these young minds grow stronger, healthier, and more resilient.

In short, Painter Pals is not just about creating art; it’s about creating opportunities for children to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Through our programs, we aim to inspire, heal, and empower the next generation, one brushstroke at a time.