Art assistant volunteer training
Access Alliance uses the arts to enhance newcomer mental health and wellness through a range of expressive arts programs delivered across settlement and healthcare services using a coordinated, team-based approach. To strengthen this work, the Newcomer Artists Mental Health Training was developed in partnership with MABELLEarts. The training was designed to equip newcomer artists with […]
Nesting ground report 2024 – 25
The “Nesting Grounds” program are weekly community arts workshops that emerged in response to participants’ requests for more sustainable, long-term arts programming that supports well-being in a non-threatening and destigmatizing way. Participants shared that arts programs supported their mental health and sense of connection, while expressing a need for ongoing opportunities beyond short-term workshops. Learn […]
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. […]