Project Community’s Project CHILDD Provides Special Needs Kids & Teens with FREE Creative Art Therapy, Music, and Storytelling at Pelham Art Center

Children and teens who are mentally or physically challenged need to be constantly reminded of their self-esteem and independence, and encouraged to socialize with others. Pelham’s Project Community is excited to announce the return of their school year programs with Project CHILDD (Community Help In Learning about Developmental Disabilities) resuming monthly Sunday programs at Pelham Art Center to assist those with special needs.

On Sunday, October 30, participants gathered at Pelham Art Center for this year’s first get-together. The children took part in Halloween-themed art activities, and enjoyed cupcakes and relaxing yoga. 

“It was wonderful to see all the children together, enjoying themselves and getting into the Halloween spirit,” said Camille Drago, RN, Director of Project CHILDD – Pelham.  “We are very grateful we can offer this program to our community and look forward to welcoming more members.”

During the Sunday art programs, children with special needs enjoy free creative activities at Pelham Art Center. Throughout these two-hour meetings, children and teens are given the chance to socialize and to use art to express themselves creatively. Professional art instruction supports therapeutic expression and builds self-esteem. Activities may include creative art therapy, music and movement sessions, and interactive storytelling. An added bonus from this visionary program is that it gives the parents a much needed respite from their caregiving duties.

“Friendship, learning, trying new things and having fun in a supportive and loving environment,” said mother, Courtney Donahue. “Project CHILDD’s hard work brings all these gifts to my son, Evan, at every event. He looks forward to seeing kids he knows and meeting new people. As a mom of a very special son, I’m grateful for all they do.”

Project Community is Pelham’s only volunteer organization that is spearheaded by expert healthcare professionals, dedicated to support family life by providing insights and answers with six innovative programs such as Project CHILDD, and a variety of events, such as the ever-popular COLOR RUN. For more information on Project Community, and Project CHILDD’s schedule, visit projectcommunity.us