Music. Art. Recovery. Connection.

Make Your M.A.R.C. is a nine-session program for a cohort of 10-15 youth/young adults in recovery or deemed at risk for Substance Use Disorder. Participants meet for 3-4 hours each session, engaging in a multi-disciplinary healing arts experience in painting, drawing, music, percussion, and storytelling, and deliver an exhibition and concert the final week.

Participants learn to play guitar and percussion in a group setting, learn to draw and paint, and design art to paint on their guitar. Students learn a multitude of techniques and best practices to communicate artistic ideas. Throughout the program, guest speakers illustrate their lived experience of substance misuse, addiction, justice involvement, and how their life has transformed through recovery.

At the conclusion of the program, participants produce a capstone art exhibit and a concert for family and friends.

Through creation and performance, youth learn valuable skills in self-expression and experience the “high” that comes from the thrill and joy of creativity and artistic performance.