Youth in foster care show their creativity through art

OMAHA, Neb. (October 29, 2019) – Nebraska Children’s Home Society will host an art show at the 402 Art Collective located at 6051 Maple St in Omaha on Friday, November 1 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. during Benson First Friday.

The art show titled, “I am more than…” showcases the creativity of youth in foster care.

“This event is an outlet for youth waiting for permanency to explore their creative and artistic side,” Kasey Ripperger, NCHS volunteer coordinating the event, said. “ With the event being held on the first day of National Adoption Month, it also serves to increases awareness about the need for families to provide permanency for children in the foster care system.”

The participants include ten youth, ages 8-15, receiving permanency services through Nebraska Children’s Home Society, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska and Child Saving Institute.

“This is a great opportunity to serve children in foster care and offer our mentoring services,” 402 Arts Collective Executive Director Ben Shafer said. “The mentoring program is free to any youth in foster care and includes a weekly lesson with one of our mentors to learn anything from music to visual arts.”

The artwork will be on display throughout the month of November for National Adoption Month.

“The children are excited about the opportunity to be creative and learn more about different art techniques,” Ripperger said. “This is also giving children the opportunity to let the community know they are more than ‘just a kid in foster care. They are unique, beautiful, strong, funny and creative.”