According to The Usual Artspects Founder and CEO Sara Rose Salih,
“Imagine the unimaginable: a child, barely 12 years old, trapped in a cycle of exploitation and assault. This is Gabriela‘s reality. Picture an 8-year-old girl, abused and betrayed by the very person meant to protect her, only to face blame and disbelief from family when she finally musters the courage to speak out. This is Britney‘s truth.
“Tragically, these stories are far from unique. In the United States alone, one in two women will experience sexual abuse in their lifetime. One in three will face domestic violence, and one in six will be victims of rape or attempted rape. The aftermath of such trauma can echo for years, even decades, if survivors lack proper support and resources.
“At The Usual Artspects, our mission is to offer healing and empowerment through art for female survivors of physical and sexual abuse. Our Art Therapy Sessions and Expressive Arts Classes do more than improve the quality of life for these resilient women; they provide a safe, supportive environment and a community of understanding peers. Our group Art Therapy programs offer a newfound freedom of self-expression, support and validation that many participants have never experienced before.
“The generosity of Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has been instrumental in our journey. In our inaugural year of participation in 2023, we raised over $1,500, enabling us to provide 10 women with a transformative 3-week Art Therapy program.
“We are profoundly grateful for the impact North Texas Giving Day and our compassionate donors have had on our organization. Since 2022 we have been able to serve over 170 women. Your support allows us to continue our vital work, changing lives and fostering healing one brushstroke at a time.
“While traditional talk therapy and counseling offer significant benefits, Art Therapy presents a unique and innovative approach to mental health treatment. This modality is particularly effective for individuals who feel disconnected from the world or have experienced trauma.
“Art Therapy provides a safe and expressive outlet for those who have been silenced by fear, threats, or societal pressures. It allows survivors to break their silence without the immediate need for verbal expression, offering a guided and supportive environment for healing.
“At The Usual Artspects, we have witnessed remarkable results in our programs, with participants experiencing an average decrease of over 50% in symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD.
“As the only non-profit organization in Texas offering free Art Therapy services to survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence, we serve a diverse community of women of all ages and backgrounds. Our mission extends beyond therapy, encompassing advocacy, awareness, education and resources for abused women, their families and community.
“We are deeply appreciative of the North Texas Giving Day initiative, which provides invaluable support to non-profits like ours. This platform enables us to amplify our message and extend our reach, ultimately making a more significant impact in the lives of survivors.
“Join us in our mission to empower and heal through the transformative power of Art Therapy!”
* Graphic/photo provided by The Usual Artspects ** Photo credit: India Darling
In 15 years, Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $566 million into the North Texas community. In 2023, more than $63.9 million was raised through 97,000 donors benefiting 3,249 area nonprofits.
On Thursday, September 19, support The Usual Artspects by clicking here and spreading the word. #NorthTexasGivingDay2024