ARTogether’s Afghan Community Wellness Program is a creative new approach to supporting newly-arrived Afghan refugees and parolees in our community. Combining welcoming spaces for connection with wraparound occupational therapy support and art-based activities, the Afghan Community Wellness Program works to provide community connection, essential support, and wellness resources to Afghan communities throughout the East Bay.
Some of this program’s activities include:
Afghan Family Gatherings
A monthly gathering of recently-arrived Afghan families, facilitated by ARTogether staff and volunteers to provide expressive art workshops and community activities. In each event, 3 separate spaces and workshops (the Women’s Group, Men’s Group and Children’s Group) gather so that all family members can participate.
Donation Distribution
With the support of individuals and in coordination with the East Bay’s two refugee resettlement agencies and the East Bay Refugee & Immigrant Forum, ARTogether provides a donation distribution corner at each of its events, gathering donations based on what has been requested from our Afghan family participants. This is essential for our many participants who currently live in transitional homes and Airbnbs, many of which lack essential kitchen supplies, particularly for larger families.
Art Retreats for Afghan Service Providers
To recognize and support the staff and agencies of Afghan-supporting service providers, ARTogether hosts regular expressive art retreats for these workers, many of whom have experienced additional burdens and stress after the Fall of Kabul and its aftermath. Our goal is to provide a safe place for expressing feelings and emotions through art activities.
Additional Services
ARTogether is currently developing additional services under the Afghan Community Wellness Program, including:
- At-Home Occupational Therapy Services
- Youth Programs for Unaccompanied Minors
To learn more about this program, donate or volunteer, please contact us at info@artogether.org.
This project is made possible with support from the City of Fremont.
