We’re partnered up with GroundUp Ministries which houses and cares for teenage victims of Human Trafficking in SWFL.

The 4 girls come to see Summer at her studio once a week for 2 hours. They work with different mediums, materials, and sources to find what they’re good at and what makes them feel the best when creating. So far the results have been INCREDIBLE. Since February 2026 the girls have gone from timid and “not very creative” (they said), to flourishing with art, inspiration and an undying will to keep discovering new crafts.

Why Creative Expression Matters

For teenagers who have experienced trafficking and other forms of trauma, healing often begins long before they are able to put their experiences into words. Art provides a safe, nonverbal way to explore emotions, rebuild confidence, and rediscover their own identity.

Through painting, drawing, sculpture, and other creative projects, participants are given the opportunity to make choices, express themselves freely, and experience success in a supportive environment. These moments help foster resilience, self-worth, problem-solving skills, and healthy emotional expression.

At Summer's Art Studio Foundation, our goal is not simply to teach art—it is to create a space where every young person feels seen, valued, and empowered. While our programs are not a substitute for licensed mental health therapy, we believe that creativity can be a powerful part of the healing journey, helping participants build trust, find their voice, and imagine a future filled with hope and possibility.