Our Story

A non-profit agency since 1985, Artreach’s innovative approaches to wellness use the Performing Arts and Creative Arts Classes to help adults who have experienced mental health issues achieve sustainable recovery.

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Our Mission at Artreach is to enhance the quality of our members' lives by:

• Creating a sense of belonging

• Reducing loneliness and isolation

• Working together with the common goal of a music or theater project

• Offering opportunities for artistic development

Artreach's Second Step Players Theater Troupe and Come Together Coffeehouse have delighted audiences in Southeastern Connecticut for decades. 

Since 1985, the Second Step Players Theater Troupe has created and performed original sketch comedy about mental health issues. The Players touring performances have reached audiences from all walks of life; providers of mental health services, students in nursing and psychology programs, family members, and other people who have experienced mental health issues.

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Performing our educational theater and comedy locally and nationally

enables us to entertain, educate, and reduce the stigma and stereotyping about mental illnesses. Artreach staff and members often give presentations on the impact of Arts for Mental Health in addition to other topics.

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In recent years, Visual Arts classes have become a focus leading to Art Shows in venues throughout the state. Artreach now has a small gallery on site in Norwich, CT where they display members' original work and host art show openings featuring Artreach's Jazz Band.

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