Mural Arts Philadelphia was started in 1984 in collaboration with the Philly Anti-Graffiti network to help address the graffiti crisis in the city. In 1997 it became its own entity creating an opportunity to inspire and revitalize the communities through mural arts. They created a very unique program, Color Me Back, giving individuals with economic insecurities a chance to earn wages by creating beautiful works of art at Septa’s Suburban Station concourse. Twenty individuals are selected on a daily basis into the program, but hundreds line up for this amazing opportunity. All are willing to and want to work. Not only are they creating art, they are given the opportunity to receive life supporting services including job training and behavioral services. Together, these programs inspire individuals experiencing hardship, the opportunity to become a part of the community and improve their quality of life. The Legacy Foundation provided a grant to the Color Me Back program giving many the chance to have their basic needs met and a future filled with a sense of hop. For more information on Mural Arts Philadelphia, please visit their website at www.muralarts.org.
Art Washes from the Soul the Dust of Everyday Life!
