Investments in arts and culture reap benefits far beyond what was once thought. Research and real-world examples demonstrate the myriad ways that arts and culture strengthen individuals and communities. This collaborative, integrated approach to health requires artists, designers, culture bearers, community members, and government to come together to advance local goals, to recognize opportunities where the arts can make a difference, and to consider the well-being of individuals and the community as a whole.

Inspired by the recent White House/National Endowment for the Arts Summit "Healing, Bridging, Thriving: A Summit on Arts and Culture in our Communities," the NEA’s Our Town Creative Placemaking Technical Assistance Program (CPTA) invites you to "Healing, Bridging, Thriving: Reflections on Arts and Culture in Healthy Communities." Join us for an exciting conversation, moderated by Ben Stone, NEA Director of Design and Creative Placemaking, where we will take a deeper dive into Healing, highlighting innovative work at the intersection of arts and health.

Featured speakers:

• Michael J. Bobbitt, Mass Cultural Council

• Dr. Tasha Golden, International Arts + Mind Lab at The Johns Hopkins University

• Joe Wilson, Jr., Art, Culture, and Tourism for the City of Providence

• Sussy Santana, Arts & Health Project Manager for the City of Providence Department of Housing and Human Services

• Julie A. Garreau, Cheyenne River Youth Project

• Angelina Villalobos, Muralist and Teaching Artist

• Benny Starr, hip-hop artist, will lead off with a cultural grounding

This free public event is open to everyone and designed for anyone in government, arts organizations, artists, and community planning and development.