Hiring arts-based facilitators
Expressive arts programs offer a powerful and effective way to support mental well-being among newcomer communities, with arts-based facilitators playing a vital role in shaping and delivering these programs. Hired as fee-for-service contract workers, facilitators bring valuable expertise, lived experience, and creative skills to Access Alliance teams. Establishing clear, thoughtful practices for hiring and onboarding […]
Mindful art implementation
This workshop invites participants to explore mindfulness and self-expression through art in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Focusing on the creative process rather than the final product, participants engage with various art materials to reflect on their emotions, develop self-awareness, and practice stress management. Facilitators model playful, hands-on engagement, fostering trust and connection while ensuring […]
Integrating artful check in and outs
Artful check in and check out activities are a valuable tool for healthcare and settlement service providers to enhance participant engagement and create a welcoming, reflective space. These activities invite participants to express themselves creatively, fostering connection, trust, and a sense of safety at the start and end of sessions. This approach encourages conversation, strengthens […]
Grounded in my values
This session focuses on exploring individual values and beliefs. Through drawing and guided reflection, participants develop a deeper understanding of what matters to them, supporting informed decision-making and integration within a new community. The process encourages autonomy, builds confidence, and strengthens personal identity while helping participants recognize their strengths and apply them meaningfully in daily […]
Evaluating arts-based programs
Evaluation is crucial to understanding the efficacy of an intervention. The HEAL Project adopted many mixed method evaluation approaches to measure the change in behaviours, knowledge, and attitudes of participants who completed the program. The evaluation methods focused on relationship-centered and trauma-informed approach that prioritizes dignity, choice, emotional safety, and cultural meaning. Read more about […]
Findings and impact
The HEAL Project demonstrates that trauma-informed, culturally responsive expressive arts interventions can meaningfully support the healing and well-being of newcomer survivors of domestic and family violence. The evaluation used a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative insights from participants, peer facilitators, and community partners with quantitative measures of program outcomes. This approach provided a comprehensive insight of […]
Community button making
Button making is an effective and versatile tool that agencies can use to boost participant engagement through hands-on creativity and interactive learning. By designing their own buttons, participants take ownership of their learning and deepen their understanding of key topics. This approach reinforces messages, sparks conversation, and encourages shared learning, extending the impact of programs […]
Mind and body connection
This session explores the mind–body connection and introduces practical somatic techniques to support mental well-being. Through guided learning and embodied activities, participants learn to recognize stress in the body, practice grounding and regulation strategies, and use bodily awareness as a source of strength during moments of emotional overwhelm safely. Terminology: somatic resourcing, body attunement, stress […]
Cultivating self-compassion
This session introduces participants to the principles of self-compassion and highlights its role in supporting emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Through guided learning and reflective activities, participants explore ways to respond to challenges with kindness, strengthen self-care practices, and build confidence through self-affirmation to support overall resilience and well-being. Terminology: self compassion, social isolation, self […]
Better boundaries
This session supports newcomers and caregivers in understanding the importance of healthy boundaries for self-care, well-being, and maintaining sustainable relationships while navigating new environments and responsibilities. Through guided discussion and practical tools, participants learn how to identify, set, and communicate personal boundaries. The session builds confidence in recognizing when boundaries are needed and expressing them […]