Monmouth County faces significant mental health challenges in both its senior and youth populations, with issues such as social isolation among seniors and high rates of youth substance abuse and suicide. The county often sees rates higher than state or national averages in specific metrics like substance abuse treatment admissions. One in five people lives with a mental illness, yet too many struggle in silence due to stigma and limited access to care.

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Monmouth Arts’ Creative Expressions Arts and Wellness Program was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to serve youth in underserved communities dealing with stress and anxiety caused by the virus. The program has since expanded to support seniors, families, and other adults in need experiencing stress, grief, anxiety, or loneliness. By pairing teaching artists with mental health professionals, the program brings free, hands-on arts workshops directly to schools, senior centers, and community organizations. Through creative projects and guided support, participants explore emotions, reflect on experiences, build resilience, and reconnect with joy, demonstrating how the arts can foster healing, hope, and community.

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Program Manager Devan Brash, a lifelong dancer with a master’s degree in arts administration, describes the program simply: “We show up with everything—the art supplies, the mental health professional, the teaching artist.” By removing barriers such as cost, transportation, and limited access to materials, Creative Expressions ensures that art and its proven mental health benefits are accessible to those who need them most.

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Since the pandemic, nearly 3,000 participants across Monmouth County, including the YMCA of the Jersey Shore, Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County, Earle Naval Base, senior centers, and residents of HABcore in Red Bank and Asbury Park, have participated in the program. Youth have gained confidence and coping skills; seniors have found renewed connection; and all participants discovered healing through the arts. 

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But that’s not all, Monmouth Arts brings the arts to every corner of our community: supporting young artists through the Monmouth Arts Teen Arts Festival and Emerging Arts Scholarships, expanding cultural programming initiatives, and continuing to bring free arts programming and services to underserved communities throughout the County. 

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We believe deeply in the power of the arts, and we know you do too. Will you help us continue to inspire and uplift the arts for everyone in Monmouth County by making a meaningful contribution?

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With your support, you will help shape a stronger, more vibrant community through the arts.