Business Details
24 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Empowering Mental Health Through Creative Arts in Seattle
Founded in 2002, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges through creative self-expression. Our mission centers on fostering a community rooted in acceptance, offering arts-based programming that serves as a catalyst for personal growth and recovery. We provide free classes in drawing, painting, drama, photography, music, and writing across Seattle, prioritizing accessibility for underserved populations.Our volunteer-driven model ensures 100% of funds directly support community programming. Over two decades, we've built partnerships with local organizations to combat isolation and stigma surrounding mental health while promoting cultural inclusivity. Our leadership team combines expertise in education, mental health advocacy, and community engagement to create transformative spaces for healing through the arts.
Services
Art Classes
Community Outreach
Volunteer Programs
Mental Health Workshops
Creative Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- 100% volunteer-run organization ensuring funds directly support programs
- Offers 10+ types of free creative arts classes for mental health recovery
- Established partnerships with 20+ local community organizations
- Focus on serving marginalized populations including homeless individuals
- Combines artistic instruction with social connection to combat isolation
What people say
Kept me alive
Empowering experience
Meet new people
Creative freedom
Community support
Services
Art Classes
We offer free weekly art classes in drawing, painting, drama, photography, and music across Seattle. These classes provide therapeutic creative outlets for individuals facing mental health challenges. Our volunteer instructors create inclusive environments where participants build confidence through artistic expression while forming supportive community connections.
Community Outreach
Our outreach initiatives connect with 20+ local organizations to expand mental health support networks. We collaborate with shelters, healthcare providers, and cultural institutions to deliver arts programming directly to underserved populations. This includes on-site classes at partner facilities and coordinated events promoting mental health awareness.
Volunteer Programs
We provide structured volunteer roles for community members and students interested in mental health advocacy. Positions include teaching assistants, event planners, and outreach coordinators. Volunteers receive training and work directly with our staff to develop programs that combine artistic instruction with social support initiatives.
Mental Health Workshops
Our specialized workshops focus on using creative expression for emotional healing and personal growth. These sessions incorporate guided art projects with group discussions to help participants process experiences and develop coping strategies. Workshops are led by experienced facilitators trained in trauma-informed care approaches.
Creative Partnerships
We develop long-term partnerships with local businesses and cultural organizations to expand our impact. These collaborations result in joint exhibitions, community art installations, and special events that showcase participants' work while raising awareness about mental health issues through creative expression.
People
Chandler Lewis
President and Acting Executive Director
With 12+ years in education and nonprofit leadership, Chandler oversees program development and community partnerships. He holds a Master's in Organizational Leadership and has directed mental health initiatives since 2016.
Tanya Marceau
Board Member
A Blackfeet Nation member with a Master's in Public Administration, Tanya brings tribal mental health expertise. She works as a Mental Health Referral Coordinator while advocating for indigenous community wellness through our programs.
Aaron Rosser
Board Member & UW Chapter President
Pursuing Psychology and Philosophy degrees, Aaron leads our University of Washington chapter. He develops campus mental health initiatives and connects academic research with our arts-based recovery approaches.
Carolyn Hale
Founder & Former President
Founder of Circle of Friends in 2002, Carolyn established our arts-based mental health model. With graduate education in teaching, she directed operations for 15 years before transitioning leadership to current directors.
Shiv Subramanyam
Board Member
A Physics graduate pursuing computational linguistics, Shiv contributes educational program development. He believes in art's transformative power and manages volunteer training initiatives for new instructors.
Questions
What mental health services do you offer?
We provide free creative arts classes including painting, writing, drama, and music to support mental health recovery and social connection.
How can I volunteer with your organization?
We offer volunteer opportunities in teaching art classes, community outreach, grant writing, and event planning across Seattle.
Are your programs accessible to homeless individuals?
Yes, we partner with local shelters and service organizations to ensure accessibility for homeless individuals through our outreach programs.
Do you accept art supply donations?
Yes, we welcome donations of art supplies and materials to support our free community classes and workshops.
How is your organization funded?
We operate through grants, individual donations, and fundraising events like our annual Stampede Over Stigma 5K Walk.
