Program Description:
Volunteer program leaders will coordinate and faciliate a newly developed arts program at FEGS, serving clients with challenging mental health needs. This program will focus on expanding clients' self-worth, enriching their lives, and connecting clients with each other and the community by engaging in various creative activities. Clients will be exposed to and be able to participate in artistic and other creative pursuits, including activities involving music, drama, dance, writing, painting, knitting and crocheting, cooking, and photography. This program seeks to provide clients with the ability to achieve their goals in a supportive environment with peers who are on the same path of recovery and foster an improved quality of life.
Position Description:
Program leaders will partner with site coordinators to oversee this bi-monthly program, which may be expanded depending on client response. An ideal program leader would be comfortable engaging with clients directly and have the ability to periodically lead creative activities. The program leader would oversee these visits, along with the FEGS site coordinator. Volunteers with a connection to the arts and/or knowledge of arts organizations in relevant geographical area are ideal. However, no expertise in the arts is necessary, only a willingness to develop basic activities for clients and, most importantly, the ability to encourage clients in their creative endeavors. The program leader will also team with FEGS to reach out to arts and other creative organizations throughout Manhattan, the Bronx, and Westchester and involve members of these organizations in programs at FEGS sites. As such, outside artists of all types will be involved in leading programs regularly.
A basic understanding of the potential barriers faced by individuals with mental health needs is preferred. However, support and training is available and all volunteers with a sincere interest are welcome. A six-month commitment is required.
Time Commitment:
Twice monthly; Each of the programs will last approximately one and a half hours, though this may vary based on the day's activity.
Location & Times for programming:
FEGS PROS Site
3600 Jerome Avenue; Bronx, NY 10467
FEGS is accessible via the 4 Train to Woodlawn. It is also accessible via major thoroughfares including I-87, the Bronx River Parkway, and the Saw Mill River Parkway.
Time is TBD between 8:30am and 2pm weekdays. Please note preferences, if any, in e-mail of interest.
