Promoting Kindness through a Mural
CARY’s Community Mural
Words by Alison Bryce Photos courtesy of CARY4kids
Celebrating 20 years of helping children, CARY (Council on At Risk Youth) is organizing more events than ever before to continue their mission to empower at-risk youth with the skills to avoid crime and violence.
On March 30, CARYKids joined CARY Youth Advisor, Daniella Catalfumo, to paint a 50-foot long mural. Each student involved played an important role designing and painting the piece of art.
Catalfumo, who is a licensed Art Therapist, has been working with the students to use their artistic expression as a connection therapy. The idea of the mural came about to teach CARY students about community leadership. Above that though, the goal was to give students a sense of pride and reflect the positive change that can happen when individuals are shown kindness.
A 50-foot fence, which was donated by Celeste Villarreal, an active member of CARY’s board of directors, was the canvas where students worked. Although the first attempt at holding the event was rained out, the rescheduled day provided perfect weather for painting and a block party to celebrate.
The students, with help from a few members of CARY, worked together to move their artwork from ideas on a paper to a beautifully designed and colorful fence. Once the mural was completed, the pride the students had for their hard work was visible on their faces and brought joy to everyone who attended. And now, it is sure to bring a spark to those who pass it each day.
Get Involved: CARY is holding is their 20th Anniversary Gala at the Thinkery on May 2 from 6-9pm. The night will be filled with influential guest speakers, drinks, appetizers, and a silent auction. Dr. Art Markman and Bob Duke will join Rebeca McInroy to explore topics associated with the brain and explain why people do what they do.
Contact:
cary4kids.org
@cary4kids
512-451-4592
