During my years working at Places for People (a social service provider for un- and underinsured individuals living with mental illnesses and/or substance use challenges), I designed, launched, and coordinated the agency’s first comprehensive community arts program. Through both 1-1 and group expressive arts experiences, this program holistically nurtured the creative vitality of the Places for People community. From our teaching artist initiative to the co-orchestration of a photovoice research study featured in the British Journal of Social Work to collaboratively creating an installation in honor of individuals who died while unhoused, building this program was both a passion and a joy.  

Some of my other past community arts work has included developing and implementing expressive arts workshops in inpatient psychiatric settings, at an agency that provides services for adults diagnosed with developmental disabilities, and at local community centers. In addition, I was a past co-coordinator of “My Name Is Strong” (a community arts exhibition featuring work by those impacted by gender-based violence).

I am currently the Community Co-Chair of the Dutchtown Main Streets Design Committee. I also co-host a Poetry Open Mic at The Heavy Anchor (5226 Gravois Ave, St. Louis, MO 63116) every last Wednesday of the month from 7PM-11PM where we are dedicated to cultivating connectivity and mutual support within the St. Louis poetry community, and all welcome.

I am always interested in new community arts collaboration opportunities, so please feel free to reach out if you feel so inclined!