Noticing a gap in therapeutic arts programming in Ward 7 and 8 and stigma around mental health services, Melissa launched a new initiative in 2014, offering art therapy and creative aging programming addressing health concerns in the community and fostering wellness through creative expression.
Creative workshops were hosted for neighborhood families, young adults experiencing houselessness, and women sheltering in domestic violence housing. To help provide accessible opportunities, workshops were hosted free of charge and in the evenings. Workshop topics included Grief and Loss, Personal Empowerment, Family Resiliency, Emotional Management, and Positive Identity Formation.