Nonprofit ‘Heard’ to Teach Art and Creative Writing Classes on Zoom with Alexandria Jail Inmates

“Creative writing nonprofit Heard is still finding ways to make noise.” Love that opening sentence! Our thanks to ALXnow editor James Cullum for featuring us on June 24, 2020. And yes, we’re excited to start virtual classes again at the Alexandria Detention Center! Here’s our executive director, Jane Collins (second from right) with Sheriff Dana Lawhorne (far right) and a few of the winner from the 2019 Heard/Alexandria Detention Center writing contest.

“10 Questions” with Marion Brunken, Executive Director, Volunteer Alexandria

Yes it’s true! The Zebra was so pleased with our Quarantales stories and our executive director’s guest appearance on their Facebook Z-TV LIVE! show last week that they’ve asked Jane to host a weekly show for them! And of course she said yes because she’s not going to pass up a chance to be on TV. So, welcome to “10 Questions” where Jane asks an Alexandria leader to answer 10 (or more) professional and personal questions. And why? Well, for two reasons. First, viewers get to know our community leaders beyond their job title. Second, we want to show viewers different ways they can get involved in making our wonderful Alexandria even better and stronger!

And don’t miss our follow-up “Five More Questions with Marion Brunken” too!

Our inaugural show aired on June 24, 2020. How did we do? And if you want to nominate an Alexandria community leader to be on our show, contact us!

“It is a Phenomenal Program”

“…it is a phenomenal program.” Why, they’re talking about us! The best testament to the power and positive impact of our work is when our program partners praise us. It makes our day. Here, Friends of Guest House executive director Kari Galloway mentions Heard’s work as part of how they are keeping their residents safe and sane in a feature posted in the Alexandria Gazette Packet.  Thank you Kari! You are the best and we love working with you!

Heard Arts Program Brings Creative Expression to Marginalized Individuals

What a fabulous surprise to read this story from the City of Alexandria eNews

Expressing oneself through art can be both a freeing and insightful experience, and clinicians and therapists often use art as a treatment option in their support of individuals facing a range of challenges, including mental health and substance use disorders. This fall, the Alexandria Residential Treatment Center (ARTC) partnered with Heard, a local nonprofit, to offer art workshops for individuals in recovery. (more…)