"Artreach was the first job I had where I succeeded at work.  I had held jobs before my mental health decline took over my life, but they were entry level and held no sense of personal value or accomplishment.  After my mental health struggles intensified, I failed repeatedly at attempts to hold down a position for more than a couple weeks.

 

The supportive environment from my coworkers and the underlying culture that Artreach embodies, helped me gain confidence and resilience to become productive and disciplined while continually attending to my mental health.  I learned how important it was for me to have passion and purpose with what I do in my life.  

 

I started at Artreach as a volunteer and a board member. Next, I was hired part-time, then transitioned into a full-time employee.  

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During my time at Artreach, I decided to apply to and attend nursing school.  I transitioned from employment at Artreach to the hospital working as a successful full-time psychiatric nurse for the last 6 years.   

I went back to being a board member so I could continue to be involved in the organization that helped me support my transformation into a successful working professional.  

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Throughout the last decade I have seen how Artreach has provided services and supported so many adults with their mental health, through encouraging their personal growth while providing a sense of community and total acceptance no matter where they are at in their life.  I am eternally grateful to be a part of Artreach. It has been such a pivotal piece of my life and internal growth.  I continue to transform as I recently graduated with my Masters in Nursing and am about to get my license as a Mental Health Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner."