Art therapy is a non-verbal therapeutic intervention that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making and the creative process.

COVID-era grants had funded art therapist Kristine Peterson to provide her services to Warren County School District. Peterson, of Family Service of Warren County, is the only practicing art therapist.

Through the collaboration with the district, Peterson provided 115 students with individual art therapy and facilitated 24 groups. All students who received services reported a positive change, with 65% reporting an increased ability to manage stress.

Kristen Everetts, WAEC School counselor, expressed her concern, stating, “Art Therapy has been a staple of support for the district the last two years, and with the changes/cuts/loss of ESSER (COVID grants) funds, we are at risk of losing another great program.”

Peterson and the FSWC Art Therapy Program will hold a gala to raise funds to continue this vital program in collaboration with the Warren County School District.

The event, heART Gala, will take place Friday at the Conowango Club. The evening will include a social reception, dinner, live music, and a fine art auction.

Tickets to the event are $50 per person or $350 for a table of 8 and can be purchased at http://givebutter.com/c/Ob441b

Questions can be directed to Kristine Peterson, kpeterson@fswc.org or (814) 723-1330.