"Healing Through Art" Initiative Launches in DuPage County

Strategic Insights -

The Awakenings Project, in partnership with the DuPage County Board, has launched "Healing Through Art," a wellness program designed to promote mental health and well-being through creative expression. The initiative, funded by a county grant, offers four art therapy workshops in September and October, making therapeutic art techniques accessible and affordable to residents across the county. The program aims to provide a welcoming and nonclinical space for participants to explore their creativity while learning valuable tools for managing stress and anxiety.

Key Takeaways:

  • The "Healing Through Art" initiative is a wellness program launched by The Awakenings Project in partnership with the DuPage County Board.
  • The program offers four art therapy workshops in September and October, facilitated by art therapist Dianne Samp.
  • The workshops will be held at the Naperville Art League, with sessions scheduled for Sept. 6, 13, 27, and Oct. 4.
  • The program targets adults of all artistic skill levels, with no prior art experience required.
  • Workshops will be held on Saturday afternoons, with each series accommodating 15-17 participants to ensure personalized attention.
  • Registration is open for the first series, with the second series registration opening in January 2026.
  • The program is part of The Awakenings Project's expansion of its proven approach to support all DuPage County residents, not just those with mental illnesses.
  • Greg Schwarze, DuPage County Board member, coordinated the Small Agency grant program and emphasized the project's accessibility at just $20 per workshop or $60 for all four.
  • Robert Lundin, president of The Awakenings Project, stated that the grant allows the organization to serve its neighbors with exceptional programming that promotes mental well-being through artistic expression.

Statistics:

  • The "Healing Through Art" initiative has been funded by a DuPage County Board grant.
  • The program offers four workshops in September and October, with each session scheduled on a Saturday afternoon.
  • The workshops will be held at the Naperville Art League, with sessions scheduled for:

+ Sept. 6

+ Sept. 13

+ Sept. 27

+ Oct. 4

  • The program targets adults of all artistic skill levels, with no prior art experience required.
  • Workshops will be led by art therapist Dianne Samp, who has specialized in supporting individuals with mental illnesses through creative expression.
  • The program aims to provide a welcoming and nonclinical space for participants to explore their creativity while learning valuable tools for managing stress and anxiety.
  • Registration is open for the first series, with the second series registration opening in January 2026.

Sources:

  • Robert Lundin, president of The Awakenings Project
  • Greg Schwarze, DuPage County Board member
  • Dianne Samp, art therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor
  • The DuPage County Board
  • The Awakenings Project
  • The Naperville Art League