Archived News Release from 2003

For Immediate Release

Developmentally Disabled Adults Express Themselves Through Painting; Their Art to be Featured at "From Hearts to Arts" Exhibit & Reception

Redwood City, CA - June 3, 2003 - The Redwood City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, partnered with Kainos Home and Training Center, is happy to provide an opportunity for developmentally disabled adults to experience the joy, camaraderie, and fulfillment of expressing themselves through art, in a caring and safe environment. Through Redwood City's Accessible Recreation Activities Program (ARAP), 15 developmentally disabled adults meet each Wednesday evening to create their paintings, and the results are often astounding – the bold colors and unique designs offer a glimpse into the different personalities, emotions, and life stories of the artists.

The heartwarming efforts of these students will be celebrated on June 11th from 7 – 9 pm, at the very special "From Hearts to Arts" exhibit and reception at the Veterans Memorial Senior Center, located at 1455 Madison Avenue in Redwood City. Artwork from the "From Hearts to Arts" class will be available to purchase for $10, and all proceeds will help support future Redwood City art programs for people with disabilities. Light refreshments will be served. The ten-week arts program was led by artist Judy Gittelsohn, whose own work is collected and exhibited around the world in both private and corporate collections. Information on Kainos Home and Training Center can be obtained at www.kainosusa.org.

Redwood City's ARAP has been providing recreational activities for those with physical and/or developmental disabilities for the past 20 years. The primary goal of ARAP is to enable these individuals to have meaningful, productive and, most importantly, fun recreational experiences. The program offers an opportunity for participants to work on physical, social, and life skills in a fun, safe, and comforting environment. Current ARAP programs include monthly movie nights, bi-monthly theatre trips, and art, drama, and fitness classes, along with a wide range of other special events. ARAP and the Senior Center are operated by the Community Services Unit of the Redwood City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department.

The Veterans Memorial Senior Center offers a variety of programs and services, including innovative and creative classes, dinner dances, lectures provided by local historians, great food, information and referral, health and fitness classes that focus on wellness for free or at a very low cost.

The Center is operated by the Redwood City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, which provides recreational facilities and activities for all ages and interests, and supplies building and custodial services for City buildings. Redwood City Parks operates the Fair Oaks Community Center, providing social, educational, and cultural activities, as well as information, referral, and counseling services to persons living in Redwood City and neighboring communities. Redwood City Parks is more than you think! Its website is located at www.redwoodcity.org/parks/.

Visit Redwood City's website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, City government, and local business.

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Contact:
Stephanie Douglas
ARAP Coordinator
650-780-7313