On April 30, 2012, local UCSC alum, photographer, educator and Walnut Avenue Women’s Center Kid’s Club Program Coordinator, Ruth Rabinowitz came on to Artist on Art to talk about the current exhibition, Kid’s Club Express Yourself Art Show.

All the work was created by children that are in the Kid’s Club. This is an enriching childcare environment where 0-11 year old children participate in self-expressive art projects while their parent/guardian attends support groups and one-on-one peer counseling appointments at the Walnut Avenue Women’s Center.

Express Yourself Show went up on April 27 and will continue being shown thorough the end of May. The reception for this event is Saturday, May 12 from 3-5pm at the  Santa Cruz Art League.

The Center is always looking for volunteers. If you want to become a Child Advocate, the next Training is May 19 and 20 Sat/Sun half days 12-4pm. Please contact Denise Gonsalves, volunteer coordinator at 831-426-3062.  You can also help the center with donations that are accepted at the front desk Monday & Tuesday 10-4pm, at 303 Walnut Ave. The Walnut art supplies toys, dramatic play clothing (capes, hats, purses, dresses, glasses, baskets, aprons, soothing music, cash, gift certificates, healthy food fruits/vegetables.

For more information on Kid’s Club.

Kid’s Club is an enriching childcare environment where 0-11 year old children participate in self-expressive art projects while their parent/guardian attends support groups and one-on-one peer counseling appointments at the Walnut Avenue Women’s Center.

Many of the children have been exposed to domestic violence and are impacted by the trauma in their homes. The Center’s goal is to provide a safe space for children to relax and express themselves. As children engage in fun activities, Child Advocates foster resiliency skills. Children are encouraged to develop safe coping strategies of healthy attachment, self-regulation and developmental competency, to heal from trauma and thrive.

Kid’s Club Child Advocates have observed how art provides an opportunity for children to express their thoughts and emotions as a form of healing, support and community building.