Courage Canvas

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word...
all of which have the potential to turn a life around."
-Leo Buscaglia

Our Mission

Courage Canvas is a student-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit seeking to transform patient care through compassion, creativity, and communication. Founded on the belief that healing goes beyond medicine, we aim to empower youth and patient communities, from art-based initiatives to health literacy advocacy. Through our efforts, we hope to help patients who struggle with loneliness and emotional isolation, especially those in long-term care or pediatric wards. We hope for a world where patients feel that they are not just talked about but talked with, restoring connection and empowering communities. Along our journey, we continue to inspire more young people to heal others, expanding a community where everyone feels seen and heard.

The name Courage Canvas reflects the heart of our mission. Just like how a blank canvas can become a powerful tool of freedom and expression, we hope to open up an emotional space for youth and patients. Meanwhile, "Courage" speaks to the bravery it takes to advocate for what's right and turn silence into stories of empowerment.

Our Approach

Courage Canvas was founded by a passionate advocate for healthcare community and patient support. As a hospital volunteer, our founder witnessed the struggles patients face in understanding health awareness and the stigma surrounding mental health. Through art and communication, she aims to uplift communities and provide a voice for those who may feel unheard or overlooked. Courage Canvas volunteers aim to sustain various initiatives through health education and workshops, artistic expression, and communication skill-building.

Volunteers over 7 states, 6 countries, and 3 continents!

500+

Chapters throughout the US and countries as far as Nigeria and China.

13 46K+

individuals reached through social media platforms and program events, with 4,500+ directly impacted and $12,500+ raised!

Courage Canvas Programs

Art for Healing Workshops

We partner with Gateway180, MO's largest 24-hr family homeless shelter to deliver art and mental wellness workshops to unhoused youth.

Conversation in Compassion Workshops

Our Nigeria branch hosts an international virtual workshop to teach underprivileged youth how to use their voice to promote healing and change in their community.

Delivering Hope Program

Our youth volunteers are making heartfelt cards and crafts for patients at Christian Hospital! Our handmade gifts provide encouragement and community to the hospital patients.

Speak Up for Health Program

This youth-for-youth initiative aims to help young children build healthy habits, communication skills, and greater awareness of health and the health system. We hope to combat mental health stigma and build future advocates.

Tornado Relief Program

Due to the May 16th tornado disaster in St. Louis, families and communities are left with damaged homes and financial hardships. In response, Courage Canvas is launching a tornado relief initiative to provide donations and fundraising for children and the local community.

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Music Therapy Program

Our youth volunteers are launching a music therapy program in coordination with hospitals, hospices, retirement homes, and more! We hope to bring joy to the lives of patients and the greater community through music and shared experiences.

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More Than Medicine
Interview Series

This interview series stems from our mission of 'healing beyond medicine'; we hope to educate future generations through the impact medicine has on humanity. We interview professionals in educational, administrative, and other healthcare-related roles! Our interviews have reached countries as far as South Korea.

Global Fundraising Initiative

Courage Canvas partners with numerous international organizations to help fund for similar missions. One of our partners is Guatemala Healing Hands, where we raise money to fund free hand surgeries for kids in Guatemala! Please visit the 'donate' page to contribute to this cause.