#49: Your friendly reminder that Giving Tuesday is upon us! The holiday's are an important time to express gratitude, give back, and support organizations that inspire us to help others. The Philip A. Droulia Foundation (dba) Beyond the Lens Project is in memory of my nephew, Philip, an artistically creative and talented photographer whose life was cut short at the age of 22 from an accidental overdose in 2018. Our mission is to financially support select accredited and licensed recovery high schools (grades 9-12) struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders, through the Arts and Humanities. Research finds that both the presence of art, and art therapy, can have a positive impact on improving mental health. Through the creation of Digital Photography Studios, creative expression in photography will support recovery in finding a path to achieve clarity in self-identity, healing from trauma, increase self-esteem and support emotional development.
