Arts Access

We utilized the evaluation tool assessment created by Saint Catherine University Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy Master’s students. We observed and assessed engagement by looking at positive change in artistic engagement: for example---initiating a new creative idea, story, dance pattern. We saw positive change with each arts project—making a story object, sharing a story, co-creating/collaborating with a student, creating a rhythmic dance pattern. Positive change in physical engagement—for example---confidence levels, flexibility, ability to expand movement. 2: 1) Eight veterans participated in the Talking Suitcase project. Each had an opportunity to be listened deeply to, leaving sessions commenting “I feel like we are growing closer to each other.” 2) Puppetry project with Margo McCreary and three third grade classes. The theme “community-building and citizenship in the community, using the acronym: CARE-Cooperation, Assurance, Responsibility and Empathy. 65 students had opportunities to ask direct questions about their war experiences. The veterans poignantly and honestly shared their stories and life lessons. 3) For 100 veterans Kevin Washington led four drumming sessions and jazz musicians Irv Williams, Billy Peterson and Peter Schimke provided two dances. 4) Singer/Songwriter Barbara McAfee and Maria Genné worked with the 8-10 VA wives. KAIROS chooses artists who are known for the collaboration ability, and their ability to teach, in addition to the excellence of their artistic craft. They are skillful at encouraging participation at any level."