LOUISVILLE, Ky. – With the guidance of UofL Health’s Trauma Art Therapy Program, students from Jefferson County Public Schools’ Minor Daniels Academy participated in a unique and enriching community mural-making project that was unveiled at a recovery center in the Russell Neighborhood called The Commitment House.
The partnership between UofL Health, The Commitment House, Louisville Metro’s Office of Violence Prevention and Power Inc. connected seven high schoolers and UofL Health’s licensed art therapist, Amy Mattingly, to foster creativity, teamwork and community engagement.
“As the Trauma Program art therapist, I had the honor of guiding these youth in learning about murals, developing a concept, creating a design and collaborating as a team to bring their ideas to life,” said Amy Mattingly, M.Ed, ATR-BC, LPAT, UofL Hospital Trauma Institute. “It was a joy to watch them meet each goal of this project by engaging in cooperative teamwork, practicing healthy communication, developing entrepreneurial skills and building self-confidence.”
Students explored the history and significance of murals, brainstormed themes and ultimately created “Recovery: Progress not Perfection,” to be displayed at The Commitment House for future residents in recovery.
“It was a heartwarming experience working with the youth of today on tomorrow’s promise. The intellect and vision that these youth have are nothing short of amazing,” said Krystin Murphy, Peer Support Specialist, The Commitment House. “You would be stunned at the conversations that arose during our time together. It was so much more than painting a wall. It was ‘Collaborative Compassion’ at its finest! I look forward to future projects with our upcoming leaders.”
“Power Inc. was truly honored to be part of this transformative community mural project in partnership with UofL Health and The Commitment House,” said Eva Snadon, Executive Director of Power Inc. “I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how deeply engaged the youth were throughout the process. It was incredible to see how art served as a powerful form of therapy—allowing them to express, heal and connect in ways that words alone could not. This project exemplified the power of collaboration and creativity in building stronger, healthier communities.”
The project was made possible through a youth engagement grant gifted to UofL Health by Louisville Metro’s Office of Violence Prevention.
At the unveiling, each student signed their name, leaving their mark on a project that will continue to promote healing and community connection for years to come.
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