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Welcome to Ria's Heart, an initiative dedicated to raising funds for art classes at The STAR Center, specifically designed for individuals with autism and other disabilities. Our goal is to provide these individuals with the opportunity to explore their creativity, express themselves, and develop new skills in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Our Mission
Ria's Heart is committed to:
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Providing Access to Art: Ensuring that individuals of all abilities can experience the joy and benefits of art.
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Fostering Creativity: Offering a platform where participants can freely express themselves and unlock their creative potential.
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Building Skills: Helping individuals develop fine motor skills, social interaction, and self-confidence through structured art activities.
Why Art Classes?
Art classes at The STAR Center are more than just a creative outlet. They offer numerous benefits, including:
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Enhanced Communication: Art provides a unique way for individuals with autism and other disabilities to communicate and express their feelings.
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Skill Development: Participants improve their fine motor skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
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Social Interaction: Art classes create a community where individuals can interact, collaborate, and build friendships.
About Ria's Heart
Ria's Heart was founded by Ria Patel, a visionary who is passionate about creating opportunities for individuals with autism and other disabilities to explore their creativity. Inspired by her brother, who has autism, Ria recognized the need for a space where individuals on the spectrum could express themselves, develop skills, and feel empowered through art.
Ria's personal connection to the cause drives her dedication to providing art programs tailored to the unique needs of individuals with autism. Through her efforts, Ria’s Heart offers a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can discover their talents, build confidence, and experience the joy of artistic expression.
We are deeply grateful for Ria's vision and the unwavering support of the Patel family, whose commitment has made this program possible. Their generosity ensures that Ria's Heart continues to grow and provide life-changing experiences for those with disabilities in our community.
How You Can Help
Your support is crucial in helping us continue to provide these valuable art programs. By donating to Ria's Heart, you are:
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Supporting Education: Helping fund art classes that cater to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.
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Making a Difference: Empowering participants to realize their full potential and gain confidence through artistic expression.
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Promoting Inclusion: Contributing to a more inclusive and accepting community where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Donate to Ria's Heart
Support the mission of Ria's Heart and help provide art classes for individuals with autism and other disabilities. Your generous donation ensures that participants have access to a creative outlet that fosters self-expression, confidence, and skill development.
Donate now through the link below and be part of something meaningful:
Together, we can make a lasting impact and continue empowering individuals with autism and other disabilities through the transformative power of art.
Upcoming Art Classes at Ria's Heart with Alex Crosser
We are excited to introduce our new art classes, starting this January, led by the talented Alex Crosser. Alex is a practicing Art Therapist and Mental Health Professional with a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Studio Art from the University of Tennessee at Martin and a Master's of Education in Counseling with a specialty in Art Therapy from the University of Louisville.
With nearly five years of experience in Tennessee, Alex has worked with children, teens, and young adults, helping them manage PTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD through creative expression. She specializes in providing a safe and nurturing environment for young artists to explore their creativity and develop their artistic skills.
Our classes are designed for children in grades 2 – 6 and will be held every Monday from 3:45 – 4:45 PM. The official Spring session dates are January 13, February 3, 10, 24, and March 3, 10, 24.
Join us at Ria's Heart for an enriching and supportive art experience where your child can express themselves, learn new techniques, and create beautiful artwork. We look forward to seeing the wonderful creations that come from these sessions!
