New drawchange Mission Statement: Reflecting Growth, Clarity, and Deeper Impact

Growth is a natural part of who we are, just like it is for the children we serve. As our programs, community, and understanding of arts-based healing have evolved, so has our drawchange mission.

We’re excited to share our updated mission statement:

We unlock potential, nurture imagination, and strengthen self-esteem for children experiencing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) through healing, art therapy-based programming.

Why We Updated the drawchange Mission

Since our founding in 2009, drawchange has been dedicated to empowering children through art therapy-based programs. Our previous mission reflected that beautifully:

“Established in 2009, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering impoverished children through the use of art therapy-based programming.”

AND as our work deepened, we realized something important: not all the children we serve identify as “impoverished,” and the challenges they face extend far beyond financial need. Many experience complex emotional or environmental hardships—what are known as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)—such as instability, trauma, or other stressors that can affect emotional development.

Our new mission better reflects this reality. It focuses on the heart of our impact—healing through art therapy—without defining children by their circumstances.

What This Update  Means

Our new mission statement is more than new words—it’s a renewed commitment.

• “We unlock potential” speaks to the limitless possibilities within every child. We don’t give children creativity or confidence; we help them uncover what’s already inside.

• “We nurture imagination” captures the joy, curiosity, and freedom that art brings—a space where children can dream and express themselves safely.

• “We strengthen self-esteem” highlights the healing power of art therapy in building confidence and resilience, helping children see themselves as capable and worthy.

Together, these ideas express what drawchange has always stood for: using art therapy to create emotional safety, self-expression, and hope.

Why This Update Matters

Language shapes understanding. By refining our mission statement, we make it clear—to ourselves, our supporters, and the world—that drawchange exists to address the emotional and psychological impact of ACEs through art therapy-based programming.

It also helps us align more closely with mental health partners, educators, and donors who share our belief that art is a tool for healing and empowerment.

Looking Ahead in 2026

This update is a milestone in our journey—not a change in direction, but a deeper reflection of who we already are. Our mission continues to grow as we do, and our commitment to the children we serve remains unwavering.

Every painting, every sculpture, every joyful creative moment continues to remind us: art doesn’t just make life brighter—it heals, strengthens, and transforms.

🧡​ We’re so grateful to our #drawchangefamily for being part of this evolution. Together, we’re unlocking potential. One child, one brushstroke at a time.