My ArtistCorps Experience

Author: Onyx Velez

Prior to ArtistCorps, I had some experience with volunteering with various organizations. In high school, I had the opportunity to perform with the chorus at other high schools and help with the Special Olympics. A bit earlier in my schooling, my sister and I organized an event at the only adult day center in town playing Christmas music with the band. The event was a big hit and we were able to go back again for several years.

I wouldn't have been able to do the caroling in high school if my sister hadn't wanted to be a music therapist. I wouldn't have been able to do the volunteering in high school if I wasn't involved in key club or other programs that brought that to my attention. Likewise, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to be a part of ArtistCorps if not for Grace Pfleger (ArtistCorps member from 2018-2021) recommending this program to me. I'm grateful for all the opportunities that come my way as well as for the people who made it possible to be here today.

All of these experiences have allowed me a glimpse at what helping people is like and how truly soul enriching the experience can be. I thoroughly enjoy helping people, particularly when I can do so through the arts.

ArtistCorps has allowed me the chance to work with different demographics, from teaching phonemic awareness to young children to singing and dancing with seniors living with dementia. My interactions at my service sites have been so heartwarming because we are able to help people and bring smiles to their faces through our art. My volunteer work at many hometown events allowed me to bring joy to others who really needed it. I am ecstatic that I have the opportunity to be able to continue to bring joy into people's lives outside of my hometown through my service with ArtistCorps.

March 04, 2022