The Rotary Club of Bacolod-Marapara recently joined forces with the Bacolod-based Hearticulate Psychological Center, to present an engaging art workshop for young victims of sexual and physical abuse.
The Rotary Club of Bacolod-Marapara president is Virgilio Villarosa.
The workshop, dubbed “Shaping Hope: Empowering Young Survivors of Sexual Abuse Thru Expressive Art”, used art as a safe and judge-free outlet for girl-survivors of abuse.
Some 29 girls were guided by a trauma counselor and psychologist in an interactive session that explored an art form, specifically hand paintings on tote bags, as a tool for self-discovery and emotional recovery. The result was a delightful collection of colorful and creative hand-painted images.
Incoming Marapara Rotary president, April Kitagawa, said she was in awe of the girls’ resilience and how they managed to face their daily challenges, adding she was inspired by their positive mindset and admired their courage.
Some of the colorful and creative hand-painted tote bags*
The painting session was followed by a dance number from the girls plus snacks and refreshments. The club also donated rice, clothes and hygiene kits.
Partner organizations supporting the activity were the Nazareth Development and Training Foundation Inc., Sweet Dreams Ph, Navy Wives Club of America, Puzzles Coffee and Sweets, Beads n Artsy, Artsenic and Hotel New York Paris Downtown.*