GRAFTON, Wis. — A nonprofit in Ozaukee County is preparing for an upcoming fundraiser in hopes of raising money to keep its programming going.
Balance is a nonprofit that serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
It offers a handful of different types of programming, including adult family homes, an adult day program, adult supportive living, children’s social skills and children’s summer recreation.
One of the participants’ favorite day time programs is the art class.
Over the past year, participants have been hard at work creating works of art. Those pieces will be put on display and sold at the Balance Art Show on Feb. 7 in Grafton.
Lindsey H has been coming to Balance for the past few years. She said art class is her favorite, and she loves working with her art teacher and her friends on all the projects.
“I feel happy,” she said. “Because art is so much fun.”
Rodrigo Santamaria is the art teacher at Balance. He said this past year, his students have created paintings and other creations to sell. He said he is excited to be able to showcase their work.
The goal is to help raise money to be able to keep programming, like this art class, going.
“This classroom is just a happy classroom,” Santamaria said. “Everybody can be who they are here.”
Balance Executive Director Malorie King said a lot of skills and confidence have been built over the past year in this art class.
She said it has allowed participants to flourish and their personalities to shine.
“Our art program really provides an opportunity for our residents and participants to have some self expression, as well as build confidence,” King said. “When they see their artwork on display and people buying it, it’s such a rewarding experience for them.”
The impact of this class is not only felt by the artist but also by their teacher, Santamaria. He said he’s enjoyed watching each participant grow year after year.
“I’m very lucky to be here,” he said. “They pay me to be here, but I am learning from them and we have so much fun.”
The Balance Art Show will be held at Balance, located at 1350 14th Ave. Grafton, WI, on Feb. 7 from 3-6 p.m.