At Hope in Bloom, A Greater Hope Clinical Therapist Mai Williams engaged 21 kinship clients, primarily grandmothers and the children in their care, in A Window Between Worlds’ “I Am” art activity. 

Using watercolor paints, 5″ by 7″ canvases, and affirmation words, participants created personal pieces that helped them express feelings, reflect on their strengths, and build confidence. Following Mai’s gentle guidance, caregivers found themselves sitting beside their grandchildren, paintbrush in hand, choosing words like “I am brave” and “I am capable.” At an adjacent booth, A Greater Hope’s Behavioral Health Specialist engaged 57 kinship clients in the Rooted in Purpose activity. 

The response was powerful: 92.9% of attendees said AGH’s therapeutic art booths were their favorite part of the event.

For many grandparents raising grandchildren, stigma can be a major barrier to accessing mental and behavioral health services. These activities supported mental wellbeing by creating a safe, low-pressure space where caregivers could express stress, strengthen connection with the children in their care, and experience behavioral health support in a way that felt welcoming rather than intimidating.