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“I will doodle on napkins, tablecloths, and church programs, because art is in my blood. I use art as a way to escape my surroundings. . . . Art makes things beautiful.” – Joy (73)

Seventy-three-year-old Joy has loved art ever since she was a child. Her early passion to sketch, draw, paint, and crochet was inspired by her father and his love of drawing cartoons.

Making things beautiful is still a big part Joy’s life today. After moving into her older adult living community, Joy began making birthday and event cards for her neighbors. Some people were interested in her artwork, so she began an art class for the community. She now teaches a handful of participants how to make cards, vision boards, and other interesting crafts.

Joy also helps out around her church. She fixes other people’s jewelry when it breaks and even sells some of her crafts to donate to the church. Joy’s life truly revolves around art, as she uses her passion to contribute to her community and make the world a more beautiful place. 

It was Joy’s Wish of a Lifetime to be able to further her passion by taking a formal art class. Joy explained, “I believe I have a natural talent for drawing and painting, but I know I would be a better artist if I had the chance to take an art class.”

In partnership with GHC Housing Partners, Wish of a Lifetime had the opportunity to make Joy’s greatest wish come true. This past February and March, Joy took an 8-week art course with a private instructor, Samantha. Joy shared some of her experience, stating, “Yesterday I learned how to draw a bear and put the fur on him. It turned out pretty good, I was shocked. I loved it, I had so much fun.” Joy happily said, “Learning to draw is one of the best things in the world. This was a prayer in my heart that was granted. It makes me happy. Everything seems to have changed.”