Tanager Place raises more than $80,000 for Expressive Arts program

Tanager Place raised more than $80,000 through ticket, sponsorship and scholarship funds in support of the Expressive Arts program during the annual Expressive Arts Gala on October 13. The program, funded 100 percent through community support, allows children to use writing, music and art to explore devastating emotional or psychological issues that may be too threatening to face directly.

The Expressive Arts Gala provides an opportunity for community members to learn more about the unique work of Tanager Place Expressive Arts program, view artwork that has been created by children in this important therapy, and share their financial support to this critical component of Tanager's mission. This year, Tanager saw a 10 percent increase in funds raised in support of the Expressive Arts program.

For the first time, audience members heard the story of someone directly impacted by Tanager Place's Expressive Arts program. In a powerful and moving testimony, audience members heard the story of Aubrey (name has been changed to protect privacy), who shared her experiences as a child at Tanager Place.

“Music was such a big part of my life before I came to Tanager Place. The Expressive Arts program allowed me to express a full version of myself, enabling me to heal through the arts, in ways that were deeply personal to me,” said Aubrey.

“We are blessed to be surrounded by such amazing advocates for our children,” said Tanager Place Director of Community Relations Joan Hackbarth. “The Expressive Arts program would not be possible without this community's support, and we are honored to be a resource available to children and families in this area.”

Tanager Place would like to express gratitude to its Platinum Sponsor, Raining Rose, and to its Gold Sponsors: Guaranty Bank & Trust, Linge Foundation, and Matt & Red Rissi. Special thanks also to the Expressive Arts committee and the many other sponsors and guests who contributed to this successful event.

For more information on the Expressive Arts program, visit

www.tanagerplace.org/information/our-programs/expressive-arts/

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Contacts:

Director of Community Relations Joan Hackbarth | jhackbarth@tanagerplace.org or 365-9165 X 309. Public Relations Specialist Emily Muhlbach | emuhlbach@tanagerplace.org or 365-9165 X 307