Huntington Mayor Richard Strick Collaborates on Painting with Pathfinder Services Artists as Part of Disability Awareness Month

HUNTINGTON, IN - Pathfinder Services and the City of Huntington are collaborating to celebrate March as Disability Awareness Month with several events.

Mayor Richard Strick worked on a painting with nine artists and Activity Specialist Sarah Schwab at Pathfinder Services Creative Abilities this morning at 10:00 a.m. in the art studio inside the Café of Hope at Life Church at 900 East State Street in Huntington.

“We recognize that there are folks in our community who are living with challenges that some of us don’t experience the same way and they are a real blessing to us,”

says Mayor Strick

“A real beautiful community, a place that really works for all of us where we are all in it together, is a place that makes sure that everybody has a seat at the table and being able to participate.”

Everyone was surprised to learn that the secret painting the group chose for the event happens to be one of Mayor Strick’s favorites…The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh.
The mayor and each of the artists took turns adding to the piece, which will be given as a gift to Mayor Strick once it is finished.

“I know that art and creativity are really important to the group and they have been looking forward to today,”

says Schwab.

“This is one month out of the year when we can shine a light on what we are doing at Pathfinder Services, that it’s important to us and it’s important to our community.”

Pathfinder Services Creative Abilities Art Studios provide spaces for teens and adults with developmental disabilities to use their creative skills. The studios are set up for artists to paint, sculpt, sew, draw, craft jewelry, and much more. Artists sell their works at studio locations and different community events throughout the year and can be commissioned to do pieces. Proceeds go back to the artists and to Pathfinder Services Community Supports to sustain the art program.

For additional information, contact Nicole Hahn at 260-355-2546 (office), 260-519-3837 (cell), or [email protected]