The Power of Art as a Coping Tool
Juniper Arts Academy is proud to announce the launch of our ArtBridge Program at the Sedgwick County Juvenile Detention Facility!
When youth experience stress or trauma, their brains switch into survival mode—making it almost impossible to think ahead. Making art calms the nervous system and unlocks the brain’s ability to dream, problem-solve, and imagine new possibilities.
Bringing ArtBridge to Life
ArtBridge delivers trauma-informed art packets and activities directly to youth through specially designed activity carts. This allows students to access creative, brain-calming tools even when Juniper instructors are not onsite.
By making art materials and guided activities readily available, we're helping young people practice creativity and coping skills beyond scheduled classes. Art can become more than an activity; it can become a tool they return to whenever they need it.
A Community Effort
This program wouldn't be possible without the support of our community partners and collaborators. We would like to extend a special thank you to:
The Kansas Health Foundation: For funding this project through their Innovation Grant.
Alyssa De Jong: Local artist who painted the beautiful mural featured on the ArtBridge cart.
Sedgwick County Juvenile Detention Facility: For partnering with Juniper and believing in the power of the arts to support youth well-being and growth.
Looking Ahead
The launch at Sedgwick County Juvenile Detention Facility is just the beginning. Over the next six months, additional ArtBridge carts will be delivered to foster care and juvenile justice spaces throughout Sedgwick County and Harvey County.
Brighter futures begin when young people believe they're possible. We're excited to see how ArtBridge continues to grow and make an impact throughout our community.
