HOPE Center for the Arts

The moment I walked through the doors, I could feel something special among the students and staff of Hope University. The environment is so bubbly and happy; everyone makes you feel welcome and appreciated. The tasks given are fun and sometimes pleasantly challenging for the artist or creative mind. It feels great to be able to use your creative skills to help out such an amazing program! I have grown so much as an artist, as a student dedicated to becoming an art therapist, and simply as an individual. I had never worked with the intellectually disabled, and this was a wonderful way to begin. The students are definitely the best part of the experience: they are wonderful to interact with, to have a laugh with, and they unknowingly challenge you to see the world in a new light. I have learned so much from just a few trips and so can you; If you love people, appreciate art and have a passion for learning, Hope is the place for you:)

Disneyland is right down the street, but I'd beeline over to Hope U any day. The students can't help but be filled to the brim with personality, and the staff is kind and patient. The environment is casual and laid-back with lots of jokes thrown back and forth between the student-staff lines. This was my initiation into volunteering and interacting with people with intellectual disabilities and I couldn't ask for a better experience. If you're interested in spending time with colorful characters in an even more colorful environment, Hope is the place for you.