DISABILITY SERVICES

Learning is better, together.

For the past 16 years, Hearts for the Arts has been dedicated to our mission of providing a welcoming space where individuals of all abilities can learn and create, together. We believe that art can be used as a powerful tool to enrich lives and build connections. In this spirit, our teaching methods are designed to nurture personal growth, confidence, and self-esteem. Through therapeutic art classes, entrepreneurial training, student exhibitions and community events, we offer a variety of opportunities to be involved in the arts.

In the classroom we encourage creative independence, as we feel everyone possesses artistic ability. Using a person-centered approach, our trained staff works alongside each student to teach and create unique tools and techniques to bring out their natural gifts and talents. We provide projects that are tailored to suit each individuals needs and interests, while allowing the freedom to experiment with different art forms such as painting, weaving, and mixed media.

At Hearts for the Arts we celebrate the diversity of artistic expression and invite you to be a part of our creative community.

ART ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

This program is every Monday - Thursday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., and focuses on creativity and community. Here, learning extends beyond just art as students gain important life skills such as socialization, self-determination, relationship building, responsibility, and money management. Through activities including art, music, games, parties, community events, (and lots of laughter!), we create a supportive environment for learning, building confidence, and forming new friendships. For those interested in learning how to be a professional artist, we offer entrepreneurial training and provide opportunities for all our students to showcase and sell their work through student art shows and events.

These classes are tailored for young adults - seniors. Activities and projects are individualized to each students needs and interests to ensure a great experience while at our studio. We provide a low-sensory environment, small group setting, all supplies and most importantly - FUN!

Please reach out to owner Shannon Andrus at 616-450-1922 or email shannon@hearts4thearts.com for more information about our program, pricing, and enrollment availability. For organizations or groups interested in partnering with our Art Enrichment Program, we are happy to discuss additional days/times that work for you.

In the studio

Our spacious 1,500 sq ft studio is fully accessible. We work with all ages having specific needs including (but not limited to): cognitive and developmental disabilities, brain trauma injuries, mental health disorders and children/adults facing challenges or illness. For those with physical impairments, we offer unique artistic tools and projects. If you have specific requirements, please contact us prior to your visit so we can accommodate your needs. 

In our studio, safety comes first. Students attending must be free of behaviors. We also recognize that many who come through our doors have compromised immune systems, therefore we maintain a very clean and sanitary environment, as well as enforce a strict policy regarding student illness.

ClientS

Over the years we’ve been honored to work with many amazing non-profits and businesses who help to empower and uplift others. Through art classes, events and partnerships, our client list includes: Make-A-Wish Michigan, Kent ISD, MOKA, Children’s Healing Center, Autism Support of Kent County, Network 180, The Gilda’s Club, Boys & Girls Club of Grand Rapids, Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired, Hope Network, St. Ann’s Home, Thrive Refugee Program, Equest Therapeutic Riding, Arbor Circle, WMCAT, Calvin College, GVSU, Saint Anthony Schools, Kent County Juvenile Court Center, Meltrotter Ministries, Mid-Michigan Industries and more.

In addition, we have worked with transition programs, residential care homes, child care centers, and outpatient facilities to provide a variety of art services. If your business or non-profit is interested in learning more about our therapeutic art services please reach out to owner Shannon Andrus at 616-450-1922 or email shannon@hearts4thearts.com

About the owner, Shannon AndruS.

Shannon has a passion for empowering others through art and has been dedicated to this for the past 20 years. She founded Hearts for the Arts in 2008 for individuals with disabilities, and prior to this endeavor, worked as an Art Director and Instructor for a non-profit serving adults with developmental disabilities and brain trauma injuries. Shannon has worked not only as an art educator and mentor, but as a skill-building coach in areas including: community socialization, practices in the work force, responsibility, determination, and many other life skills. She has also worked in community respite programs for children with special needs as well as instructed disability classrooms through Grand Rapids Public Schools. Shannon's love and passion for the arts and people is reflected greatly in her classes. Her uplifting studio is a place where students of all abilities and backgrounds can come have fun, learn, express themselves creatively and most importantly, grow.