“I am proud to say I am a US citizen now; it has been a long journey,” said Alicia. “One thing is for certain, I plan to continue to help others with art.” Alicia will start a new non-profit to serve Florida children in need, teaching art and art therapy.
After teaching art and art therapy classes to youth for years, Alicia is ready to start her own non-profit providing art therapy to young people in need of support and enhanced self-esteem.
“Art therapy can allow children to find their voice and gain confidence. The power of healing through art is amazing to witness. Children who can’t open up or express the pain and hurt they have experienced are given a lifeline when they create art. It is scientifically proven that you release energy, express emotions and become happier when you create art,” explains Alicia.
Alicia’s non-profit Happy Industries Art Studio will benefit from her years of advanced studies in Art Therapy and Art Education. The organization will offer many types of art classes. Currently Alicia teaches art on a smaller scale, offering art classes throughout the community including to those without the ability to pay. She holds classes at Park events, teaches the Art Club for Leto High School in Tampa and this year provided three art scholarships for students to further their art studies.
“The Business Builder Grant will help us with the $400 start up fee to begin a non-profit organization and help us to increase the number of free art classes. I have done art outreach in hospitals and many places where children and adults need support, encouragement and self-expression. Our non-profit will expand this work and help reach many more community members including adults, veterans and others. Thank you, Fulfill Your Destiny!”
