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 […]
Friends near and far
This session supports newcomers in identifying and developing a community of support and belonging, which is essential when settling in a new country. Social connections play a vital role in well-being and safety. This activity guide encourages participants to share their experiences and explore new ways to build meaningful connections by mapping their community of […]
Co-design reports
These co-design reports capture the collaborative activities, expert insights, and community-informed processes that shaped the development of the HEAL 12-week expressive arts program. The project gathered knowledge across conference engagement, facilitated co-creation sessions, and in-depth informational interviews. Together, these documents reflect how the HEAL Project integrates Community-Based Participatory Action Research (CBPAR) to ensure that program […]
Collective painting gallery booklets
These Gallery Booklets feature image insights into 12 collective paintings produced from the HEAL Programs. Six cohorts of newcomer women engaged in the 12 session expressive arts intervention with a total of 52 participants completing both the program and evaluation process. Each booklet provides a glimpse into the transformative power of art as a pathway […]
Healing arts for newcomer well-being event
On November 12, 2025, Access Alliance hosted Healing Arts for Newcomer Family Well-being at the Toronto Reference Library. Attendees were welcomed into a space filled with warmth and colour. It was an energetic, inspiring evening, bringing together community members, and professionals from the arts, mental health, healthcare, and settlement sectors. This event marked the culmination […]