The Experience

• "I had never volunteered before my experience with Free Arts, and I was amazed at the fact that as each week went by the kids were able to let the volunteers know that they really appreciated the fact that we were there to spend time with them each week. It was apparent that the kids benefited from us being there to care about them and their many talents."
  -Kate, Free Arts Volunteer
• "I have volunteered with Free Arts for about 2 years and it has continually been an amazing experience! Children and parents are able to safely express the feelings and emotions and in the process are able to create something amazing or maybe just get a chance to work one on one with someone. This organization is with out a doubt beneficial to each child, parent, volunteer, and the community."
  - Tiffany, Free Arts Volunteer
• "I have been a volunteer with Free Arts for almost a year now and feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to mentor these children. All of them are such a precious resource and contribute to the world in their own unique ways. If it were not for Free Arts, these kids would not have an opportunity to shine!"
  -Amy , Free Arts Volunteer
• "I've worked with Free Arts for 2 years now. It provides an invaluable outlet for kids to connect w/themselves & others in a similar situation. I've seen kids change from being upset to glowing once they finish their art & they're so proud! Art really does heal the soul! "
  -Lynn, Free Arts Volunteer
• Words cannot express how fulfilling the experience of being a Free Arts volunteer has been. This program is able to bring such a unique opportunity to children who are working to overcome such difficult life circumstances at such a young age. For at least one hour a week, these children are able to really be creative, express themselves freely, have fun and be kids!
  - Kristin Marie, Free Arts Volunteer
• "Free Arts of MN is truly an extraordinary organization! The children touched by the hearts of Free Arts staff and volunteers help to heal (in many ways) years of abuse, neglect and trauma. Providing opportunities through Arts to children in ways that lift their self-esteem, self-image, confidence and compassion -these are just a few ways Free Arts impacts these children's lives."
  - Ryan, Free Arts Donor
• "As a survivor of abuse in a day and age when there was little advocacy for the child, it was the mentorship of some very kind and attentive, appropriate adults who gave me an artistic outlet for my feelings. It wasn't Free Arts back then, but it might as well have been. I am a strong believer in programs like this. I am a healthy successful adult AND parent, and the cycle of abuse has ENDED!"
  - Melissa, Free Arts supporter
• "Children need programs like Free Arts. Free Arts allows children to create and express themselves freely through the process of art. The Free Arts program also helps children realize they are able to build trusting relationships with adults in a safe environment. As a Free Arts volunteer I have been privledged to witness children's self-esteem and hope for life transform through this process."
  - Megan, Free Arts Volunteer
• "We, all the staff at our facility, continue to be thrilled with the programs that Free Arts provides for our kids. The kids look forward to Free Arts each week, and so do the staff. Thank you!"
  - Karen, Facility staff