Healing HeARTS
Erin L. Hopkins
Cleveland State University
Proposal Writing/UST 410/Spring 2022
Final Grant Project Paper
April 17, 2022
Executive Summary
Healing HeARTS is a virtual arts program that uses artistic expression to help adults suffering from grief and loss find a place of peace and comfort within themselves. The organization’s goal is to focus its outreach into the state of Ohio’s Cuyahoga County through activities available through an internet and social media presence.
Grief can take many forms. From the death of a loved one, to the loss of a job, or experiencing a divorce, the resulting grief hurts. Symptoms typically found in those who suffer depression and anxiety disorders are often experienced by those who are grieving for weeks to months after their loss.
Healing HeARTS facilitates a different artistic activity each month for a minimum of one year, with a goal of providing these activities for three years and beyond. A diverse pool of professional artists (writers, dancers, musicians, crafters) will be cultivated and paid a stipend to lead participants virtually through these activities on internet and social media platforms. The only cost to the participant is their internet or mobile connection and the purchase of minimal supplies such as a notebook for journal writing or fabric, needle, and thread for a sewing project. Dance and music activities will only need a comfortable space in which to move and listen.
Thus, Healing HeARTS’s is requesting $5,000 for general project support from the Ohio Arts Council’s ArtSTART program. The funds would provide the stipends needed to cover the cost of one professional artist each month for the first twelve months of the program. Contingent on a successful first year, funds for the remaining two years and beyond would be sought through community donations and additional support from charitable foundations.