Creative Community Program

Creative Community Program is sponsored by Mental State Foundation (with support from California Arts Council). This program aims to increase arts access and engagement for youth, especially those impacted by mental health challenges. It includes Creative Accountability Groups to foster self-efficacy and self-expression, and a Free Art Supply program to remove barriers to creativity.

MENTAL STATE FOUNDATION INC - California Arts Council With support from the California Arts Council, Mental State Foundation will establish our Creative Community Program to increase arts access and engagement for youth, especially those impacted by mental health challenges. This initiative includes Creative Accountability Groups that foster self-efficacy and self-expression in community with others.

Our Free Art Supply program collects new and gently used art supplies to be distributed to youth at no cost, removing barriers to creativity and expression. Participants will also contribute to the Mental State Zine – a youth-focused publication showcasing creativity, sharing resources, and fighting stigma. Grant funds will support staffing, stipends, accessibility measures, and use of an accessible and consistent space for programming.

The Creative Community Program, by design, includes and celebrates individuals with disabilities – especially mental/chronic illnesses through online, in-person, and asynchronous engagement options. Creative Wellness Initiatives We offer grants to creatives focusing on their mental wellness, funding classes and materials in the arts (such as music, visual art, and dance) to encourage exploration, confidence, and joy.

We operate a Free Art Supply program, distributing donated art materials to the community to increase equitable access to creative tools. We also facilitate Creative Accountability Groups, community-based spaces where participants set and pursue creative goals together, fostering creativity, connection, and self-efficacy.

Support for Mental Health Professionals To nurture the next generation of mental health professionals, we provide scholarships to students committed to serving their communities, with a focus on underserved populations. We host a Therapist Resource Library, a shared collection of therapeutic tools, games, and materials designed to enhance clinical practice while reducing financial barriers for early-career practitioners.

Mental health professionals may also access the Free Art Supply program to obtain materials for use with clients or within therapeutic settings. Community Engagement and Education Our organization conducts mental health workshops with the goal of increasing awareness and reducing stigma.

We also host art workshops and participate in local artistic events—including art festivals and resource fairs—where we provide free creative activities (including in Spanish) and facilitate conversations about the connection between creativity and mental wellness. Additionally, we partner with artists as well as other nonprofits throughout California to collaborate and expand our reach.

Through these programs, Mental State Foundation works to create a supportive environment where creativity and mental wellness intersect, benefiting individuals living with mental illness, mental health professionals, and the broader community. 7177 Brockton Ave suite 331 http://mentalstatefoundation. org vannia@mentalstatefoundation.

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