Creating a Community of Inclusion
Elevating Lives through Art (ELA) provides innovative and evidence-based art experiences that foster meaningful connections.
Elevating Lives through Art (ELA) launches in 2026
Building on OMA’s success, Art for the Journey is developing ‘Elevating Lives through Art’ (ELA), expanding evidence-based, person-centered programming to all age groups while maintaining OMA’s core pillars of overcoming age and cognitive barriers with an expanded focus on youth and adults with physical disabilities.
Strengthening Relationships
At ELA, we believe that meaningful connections and togetherness are the key to combating social isolation.
Reports citing the negative effects of Social Isolation by the World Health Organization (WHO) and more.
Epidemic of Loneliness.
There have been reports generated by the U.S. Surgeon General, the White House, and the World Health Organization, expressing the need to address loneliness and social isolation.
Art for the Journey’s, “Elevating Lives through Art” (ELA) addresses the pervasive challenge of social isolation by fostering meaningful connections and togetherness through a person-centered approach. Rooted in evidence-based practices, ELA pairs participants of all ages in intergenerational, failure-free art experiences that celebrate individuality, creativity, and human connection. By combining art, compassion, and community, ELA transforms lives, strengthens relationships, and creates spaces where everyone feels valued and included.”
Partnerships
Art for the Journey is planning to collaborate with organizations like these:
AGING and ENGAGING
Richmond Aging and Engaging supports the health, wellness, and quality of life of older adults aging in place in low-income housing.
VCU Occupational Therapy
As a part of the research component of the Doctoral Capstone Project, Art for the Journey partners with a researcher who will dive deeper into volunteer engagement and the benefits to both participants and volunteers.
Discover the impact Elevating Lives through Art (ELA) has on transforming lives and strengthening relationships.
Our Impact
Through our evidence-based practices and person-centered approach, ELA has makes significant impact in the community, fostering meaningful connections and celebrations for all individuals.
Photo Gallery
ELA art, inspired by OMA art, is based on abstract art and is designed and tested to be “failure free.”
