Project glossary
The HEAL glossary is a practical resource for service providers and researchers working with newcomer survivors of gender-based and domestic violence. It provides accessible and culturally responsive definitions of key terms including implementation research, expressive arts therapy, mental health, and trauma-informed care in contexts where expressive arts support healing. This glossary is designed to foster […]
Arts model of care
Drawing on Access Alliance’s two decades of experience in arts-based practices, our team has developed a model to enhance newcomer mental health through the arts. By implementing a client-centered approach, we found that many participants were hesitant to engage in one-on-one therapy. This model provides an alternative by allowing individuals to engage in mental health […]
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 […]
Community-based research toolkit
The Community-Based Research Toolkit offers tools, templates and resources. This toolkit is for individuals and organizations using community-based research (CBR) principles. It provides best practices to support project planning, partnership building, peer researcher engagement, and participatory research implementation. Special feature: Includes over 70 tools and ready-to-use templates, steps for the full-cycle of your project, effective activities […]
Everyone can do research handbook
The Everyone Can Do Research handbook training his plain-language research toolkit makes research accessible and inclusive for non-academics and marginalized communities by providing step-by-step guidance grounded in community-based research principles and nearly a decade of CBR experience. Special feature: Uses icons to help you navigate the handbook, useable worksheets, and planning documents to get you started. […]
Knowledge to action handbook
This Knowledge to action handbook showcases creative and collaborative ways of to put knowledge into action through film. It offers clear definitions, practical tools, and helpful tips for sharing research using participatory filmmaking, drawing on lessons from the Knowledge to Action Initiative. This handbook can be adapted to your community of focus. Special feature: Best practices when […]
Peer research training handbook
The Peer Research Training Handbook is adapted from the Peer Training manual for the project titled “Impact of Family Loss and Separation on Refugee Youth: Implications for Policy and Programs” funded by the Children and Youth Refugee Research Coalition (CYRRC). The handbook was developed to train internationally educated and trained researchers, young and emerging researchers, […]