United Arts of Central Florida and its partners hosted a gathering to share ideas, build connections and help more people benefit from the arts.
Art can bring people together, spark joy and support our health and wellbeing. Across Central Florida, arts groups are finding new ways to bring these benefits to people of all ages.
On October 16, United Arts of Central Florida, Pabst Steinmetz Foundation and Winter Park Health Foundation hosted an Arts in Health Network event at the Center for Health & Wellbeing in Winter Park.
The event brought local arts and health leaders together to share ideas, learn from one another and find new ways to work together.
One focus of the event was how to bring arts programs to more people. Leaders from Timucua, Orlando Ballet, Emotions Dance, Crealdé School of Art and Chance 2 Dance shared insights from their work. Each group had the chance to discuss its programs and ways to reach more people.
The event also gave attendees time to meet others doing similar work. These talks can lead to new partnerships, shared resources and fresh ideas.
The group also explored how arts programs can help meet local health needs. A session on the Community Health Needs Assessment helped frame the discussion. Attendees also learned about the National Arts in Health Census, which aims to build a clearer picture of arts in health work across the country.
Another key topic was how to measure success. By tracking a few common results, arts groups can better show the value of their programs and share what they learn.
The Arts in Health Network has five main goals: raise awareness, build partnerships, reach more people, measure results and find new ways to solve common challenges. These goals help guide the network as members share ideas and look for ways to grow their work.
The October gathering was another chance for local leaders to connect and learn from each other. With support from United Arts and its partners, the network aims to help more people across Central Florida experience the benefits of the arts.
Together, we make art possible.
