Orange County DRC Participants Express Their Creativity

Written By Syerra Avalos, Orange County Day Reporting Center

They happily expressed how proud their families would be of them and how proud they were of themselves for earning their certificate of completion.

The Orange County Day Reporting Center (DRC) has partnered with the Muckenthaler Cultural Center over the years on the “Reentry Through the Arts” program, which was designed for adults who have been impacted by the criminal justice system. The partnership started in 2019. After being put on hold during the pandemic, Reentry Through the Arts returned this year, making it possible for new participants to enjoy. The Orange County DRC has been an interactive, safe environment, and a fun place where participants can explore their creative skills.

The Reentry Through the Arts Program has helped DRC participants evolve their skills in art as well as encourage their participation and confidence. The art program consisted of two hour in-person classes held twice a week for five weeks, with an art exhibit on the sixth week. Overall, six participants attended the program regularly.

At the end of the six-week art program, the DRC put together an art gallery where participants showcased their hard work. Each drawing was unique and fit each participant’s creative side. It was remarkable to be a part of the gallery and see the growth of the participants. One of the participants stated, “I wanted to quit the first day. Seeing how I stayed here and finished every week I realized this is something I like to do. I didn’t know I could draw!”

It was wonderful to witness the gratitude and emotion in the art gallery. Staff from other GEO Reentry offices attended to support our participants and acknowledge their hard work. Participants were enthusiastic to have their award and picture taken to show their families.

The art instructor was very knowledgeable and showed enthusiasm, and gratitude towards the participants. He always came in with the best attitude, and was willing to help whenever a participant needed it. He engaged with participants and reminded them that art is not perfect. Since the class has been over, more and more participants have been asking when the next art class will start. Reentry Through the Arts has helped our participants evolve their skills in the arts and we are excited for the next cohort to begin.

At the Orange County DRC, we empathize with the struggles that participants may come across, and we want to make the program something they can remember and take with them on their journey. As staff, we are excited to see what our participants learn over time and we love to see the positive changes.