CZARINNA’S STORY – A LIFECHANGING PASSION FOR ART

Peer Support Workers, like Czarinna, are a crucial part of our support infrastructure here at Coast Mental Health.

Czarinna Tabobo is a graduate of our Peer Support Worker training program, and the driving force behind one of the newest offerings at the Resource Centre: an Art Recovery Group.

Her background and passion for art, combined with her newly-acquired skills, created the perfect opportunity for her to take on a new challenge: “Once I became a Peer Support Worker, I just felt like my experience in art was something I had to keep bringing with me. Once I finished my practicum I sort of jumped right into planning a program that I really was passionate about.”

To graduate as a Peer Support Worker, Czarinna undertook 90+ hours of training and a three-month practicum. She approached her supervisors about creating a formal art program shortly after.

“I was really surprised when they trusted me enough to create a pilot program. To me that was really encouraging. It’s really raised my standard in terms of how I expect to be treated at work. In terms of being accepted and really encouraged. I rarely felt like I was limited.”

Currently around 20 individuals per month drop into the weekly sessions, many of them regulars. The group provides an opportunity for Czarinna to teach them new art skills while checking in on their mental health and providing support.

“I think I see a lot of people come in [to the Art Recovery Group] and they can really let their guard down. I try really hard to make the place very safe and welcoming and accepting so I would definitely recommend it and I would hope that everyone that comes into the space can as well. That’s my main goal.”

Thanks to our generous donors and supporters for helping change the lives of people like Czarinna, and making support programs like this possible.