drawchange Inc

Drawchange does such amazing work in the community by helping underserved children to participate in art therapy based programming in their communities. It’s a program on the road meeting kids wherever they are. For example, my first time volunteering we were in an apartment complex afterschool where families could simply walk the kids in the neighborhood to the community room. The lesson was bilingual in English and in Spanish, so every child was confident with the instructions in which ever language they felt comfortable speaking in. I personally had not seen that before in youth programming and loved that it was inclusive. Seeing kids light up after show and tell explaining their artwork is priceless!

Christina M.

Drawchange is a very well run and well structured organization. I thoroughly enjoy my time volunteering for them. It is heart warming to see the children express themselves through their artwork, each piece is unique and reflects their individual creativity. You can really see a change in the children, from the moment they arrive to the time when they leave. Their moods noticeably improve after each session. I hope to volunteer with them for a long time to come.

Interning with drawchange has been an incredibly valuable experience for me. At every shelter I’ve visited, I’ve witnessed firsthand the positive impact of their art therapy-based programs on the children. I’ve seen a child start a session feeling low and leave with the biggest smile on their face. Providing a safe, creative space for children experiencing hardships is so important, and drawchange does just that. If you have the time or resources to support drawchange in any way, I highly encourage you to get involved!

Drawchange is a wonderful non profit that helps so many children. I am so glad I started volunteering with Drawchange! I love the time I spend with the children and I can tell their time with Drawchange is a meaningful part of their day. It is a very well run program and extremely impactful for the communities it serves.

Drawchange is a wonderful nonprofit that provides impactful art therapy to the youth, helping children express themselves and heal through their own creativity. Also, their dedicated team of super great volunteers are amazing at nurturing young minds, while fostering emotional growth and resilience.
A truly amazing mission in our community and beyond!

Art saves Lives❤ ❤ ❤

I met Jennie, the founder in 2019 and she shared her story of the creation of the organization and the mission and vision. I immediately became a support. I experienced a turbulent childhood and found art to be the therapy and stability I needed during many hard times. The work that drawchange is doing in our community is important and needed. I am proud to be a supporter and look forward to assistancing in any way I can to provide art therapy to more children.

All it takes is one volunteer session to see how special this organization is! You can feel the impact, seeing the children smile, be creative, share with and support each other.

My name is Rosyl, and volunteering with Drawchange has been one of the most impactful experiences of my life. For years, I've wanted to give back to my community, and joining Drawchange felt like the perfect fit. I started as a volunteer for the Orlando shelter in January and became a program lead in June.

As an artist and designer with roots in inner-city schools, I was deeply drawn to Drawchange's mission. The children I met were incredibly inspiring. Initially, some were shy and seemed disinterested in art, but as we built trust and encouraged their creativity, they blossomed! Watching them become more expressive and eager to participate was truly heartwarming. Some even looked forward to our arrival, greeting us with excited smiles!

Volunteering at Drawchange has been a journey of self-discovery as well. I can't help but get emotional reflecting on the experience. The organization is exceptionally led by Jennie, who has created a supportive system for volunteers and program leads. I'm incredibly grateful for Drawchange's dedication to making a difference in children's lives through art therapy.

I highly recommend volunteering with Drawchange! This organization has left a mark on me, and I can't wait to return in the future.

Drawchange has given me the opportunity to get involved in my community!

As an intern at drawchange, I have felt extremely fulfilled by my experience. I worked behind the scenes doing administrative work, as well as attended the shelter session 1-2 times a week. Working behind the scenes allowed me to gain a lot of workplace experience, while also getting to know amazing people that all have the same goal and drive to make drawchange a success. Going to the shelter sessions has opened my eyes to the realities and hardships of children that may not be as fortunate as others. I have watched these children grow and prosper from week to week in ways I would have never imagined. They are so hopeful and bright even through the hard times. They have shown me a new perspective of the world especially while experiencing hard times. These children are the next generation and through drawchange, they are able to be optimistic and grateful. I will forever cherish my time spent here!

Drawchange is a great organization to be a part of! It helps connect children to art. I love being a part of the experience that allows them to express creativity.

As an intern at drawchange, I appreciate the impactful mission led by Jennie. Her dedication to providing art therapy for homeless children and raising awareness about mental health and homelessness is truly inspiring. This organization’s efforts in addressing these critical issues through creative expression are commendable. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute as an intern at drawchange. This experience has been incredibly enriching, allowing me to develop valuable skills and gain significant insights into the administrative aspects of a nonprofit organization. While there is a considerable amount of work that goes on behind the scenes—often involving challenges such as occasional miscommunication and workload pressures—I have learned to navigate these complexities and appreciate the dedication required to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children. I am proud to be part of a team that is making such a positive impact.

I have been volunteering for a few months now. I admire the dedication of the people working there, as they strive to find the best ways to introduce children to the world of drawing art. They aim to assist children in expressing their feelings and understanding themselves and their environments through art. This initiative promotes creativity and helps children manage their emotions effectively.
All the people in the organization work with their heart. It's amazing how Jennie Lobato is always thinking of many things to share her experience with the world and expand to reach more children around the world.
Eliana Prieto

My name is Victoria and I am a current Program Lead for drawchange’s Orlando branch. I began volunteering with drawchange almost a year and a half ago.

Prior to volunteering with drawchange, I was searching for something that would not only align with my career goals, but ultimately feel like I was making a difference in children’s lives. After doing lots of searching, I stumbled upon a volunteer posting on a job site and felt so drawn to the program and what it stands for. It creates so many beautiful opportunities for children to connect with themselves and their peers through various mediums of art. Through trying various mediums of art, like oil pastels or watercolors, for example, the children are able to create something that they are proud of. We emphasize that the art projects we do are not about the end product; It is about the journey it takes to get there. This may present itself differently in each child, which is what makes this program so unique and exciting.

The drawchange curriculum fosters children’s self-confidence, empathy, creativity, and so much more! Seeing the children grow and flourish is a priceless opportunity; I am eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to not only volunteer, but become a Program Lead with drawchange.

I wanted to give a special mention to Jennie, drawchange’s founder. She is always helping the drawchange team learn the most effective ways that we can help the children get the most out of the art-therapy based programs that we do. Upon talking to her, you can see her passion for children and art shine through; Having her as a mentor has been so educational and inspiring for me. If you ever have the chance to volunteer with drawchange, I would wholeheartedly recommend it!

Being with drawchange for almost a year, I have never believed in a cause more than this one! Jennie plays a significant role in so many children's lives around the world! It brings me so much joy to see the children smile and have an outlet for their creativity through the magic of drawchange. This program is making a change in children's lives one paint brush at a time!

Every time I volunteer with DrawChange, I learn new things from the young humans we are helping. These kids have a lot to share with the world, and they often need help finding ways to communicate and channel their energy. I love seeing how they grow through the program. They become more centered, able to self-calm, and they gain confidence to share their ideas and feelings.

As a former volunteer turned board member, I have had the opportunity to experience working with drawchange from multiple perspectives. From the volunteer side, I loved getting to know other volunteers and working with the children who attended the programs. It was amazing seeing the children's creativity sparked, challenging themselves artistically, and learning important breathing/meditation techniques. From the board side, I have learned so much about all the work that goes into this amazing organization. The passion of the founder and organization of the new executive director are a perfect combination to continue providing amazing, high quality programs for children all over the world.

Drawchange has a compelling mission. It has a passionate leader and founder. It has committed volunteers. Together we all provide a simple yet significant experience of unhoused children encouraging them to imagine how their lives can change! I am excited that my resources of time and money go directly to the children we serve. Knowing this makes it easy to channel my personal mission of making a difference into this path of doing so.

drawchange is children centered and empowering. Jennie is thoughtful on how to engage and empower children by focusing on future and possibilities. Art as process of communication and expression with power of imagination is what I truly appreciate about drawchange. This foundation resonate with me and I enjoy volunteering.

So happy to have Drawchange transforming the lives of children in my city. They make volunteering fun and easy. Interacting with their website I took a short course and was educated on what to expect during a session. I was then able to select assignments from a list of options. As the facilitator leads the session, my job is to sit with the kids and provide a gentle nudge if they get stuck. In exchange, I get to witness the amazing and colorful artworks that are created. Life lessons and skills are cleverly woven into and repeated with each project the kids participate in. For the children its simply a delightful experience as they leave with big smiles on their faces. It is a brilliantly designed process for all involved.

Draw change comes to our after school program, Presencia, every Friday and our kids love it! Thank you so much for all the amazing work you do and for giving art a very special meaning to our kids! Being able to touch with our imagination, especially at a young age, is so important it really lets kids be kids and for that I thank you.

I have been an Administrative Assistant Intern with drawchange for the past nine weeks, and I've learned so much in this process. Coming into my internship, I believed that drawchange did great work, but I was skeptical of their claims that art could really change children's lives. But, I witnessed firsthand how much their art therapy-based programming truly did. There was one day when I was bringing two children to Art Camp, one from the homeless shelter and the other from the hospital, and they were both so sad. I didn't know the right words to say to make them feel better or what I could do to help. I had to coax them out of the car and all the way to the doors, but then, it was almost like a miracle: they started working on the art project and slowly, slowly they started talking to me again until it was like nothing had ever been wrong. It was an incredibly impactful moment for me and just one of many such moments I had with drawchange. Working on the administrative side showed me how dedicated the drawchange staff was to the mission of drawchange and their belief that they really could impact these children's lives. drawchange is a wonderful organization whose work really does make a difference.

Drawchange is a much needed organization that helps disenfranchised children navigate through displacement and other traumatic events through art therapy. The founder, Jennie Labato has traveled the world with her gifts of artistic healing and hope, helping children heal and express their sometimes devastating ordeals through the medium of art!

Outstanding organization with a clear mission, and energetic volunteers to carry that mission out. We've been proud to support them in any way we can.

Drawchange provides an art therapy based program designed to empower unhoused children and boost their self-esteem. By consistently and compassionately showing up each week, drawchange provides a safe and comfortable space where creativity builds self esteem and challenges these children to think beyond their present circumstance opening up a world of possibility.
Unhoused children are at risk of emotional and behavioral issues, academic and developmental delays, and physical and mental health challenges. Children need to be supported through homelessness and rehousing.

I have had the opportunity to volunteer with drawchange for many years. It is a fabulous organization that does excellent work with children. Through art children can develop awareness to properly express themselves. I know have the joy of serving on the board for drawchange.

Drawchange is an amazing non-profit organization that offers children who are in comparatively disadvantaged situations opportunities to use their imagination to create art projects, express themselves, and dream big things. People in the organization truly care about children who are living in difficult situations and are very passionate about what they are doing. The staff here devote a lot of time and energy to creating a lot of art projects that aim to help children heal from their traumatic experiences and establish confidence. I am really glad that I have the opportunity to be a part of Drawchange, help more people in this world, and give back to the society.

I have worked for drawchange as an intern for two months now, and through my work, I have been able to see first-hand how great of a non-profit drawchange is. The work they do in the shelters has a positive impact on the children living in them. I have been able to see this myself when I volunteer at the shelters. Furthermore, having worked on administration with them, I also see how well-organized a non-profit drawchange is, especially considering its size.

Drawchange is a great non-profit that is well-organized and has and continues to make a large impact on the population it serves.

I’ve been interning with drawchange this summer and have learned a lot from all stages of the meticulous planning to execution. Although working remotely, I always feel surrounded by a caring and enthusiastic atmosphere for we have a team so closely connected and motivated.

It’s only volunteering with drawchange that I realize how art can be used as a device of empowerment. Jennie is a wonderful leader and truly impresses me with her commitment to helping children visualize a break in the cycle of poverty and her attention to detail in caring for the children. Her actions bring out the same spirit in the entire organization. I am very proud to be a member of this team and share the same mission with all the lovely people here!

My experience with drawchange has been amazing so far! The staff is so welcoming and helpful. They made me feel so comfortable from the start. They are all truly committed to the organization's mission and work diligently to assure every program is run smoothly and the children are treated with the utmost care. It is an honor to be a part of drawchange.

Drawchange has been a wonderful, caring organization to be involved with over the last few months. Jennie is an excellent leader who really knows how to bring out the best in these kids and to get them to open their minds to the world of art. I've first-hand had the opportunity to witness the excitement and growth of the children through the art-based projects and relaxation exercises, and would recommend drawchange to anyone who is interested in art, personal growth and a better community overall.

Even though I have only been an intern for a couple of months, I have had such an amazing experience. I have seen how dedicated everyone in the organization is to the mission. It is breathtaking seeing firsthand the impact art has on the children and how they transform from the beginning of a session to the end. They walk away so happy and proud of the pieces of art they create. My favorite thing about being a part of drawchange is seeing how the children can express themselves in our art sessions at the shelters. It is seeing how excited they are to create when we hand them the art supplies. Their energy and happiness is contagious. It makes me so happy being part of drawchange because we all work so hard to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow and have a safe space to be themselves. I wouldn't trade his experience with anything in the world. I encourage anyone interested in helping impoverished children around the world to become a part of the magical organization that is drawchange.

I have been working with drawchange for a couple of months now and I am blown away by the impact that they are making on our local communities! It is amazing to watch the way that the children open up throughout a session with drawchange. They may start the session in a bad mood but by the time show and tell comes around, they are beaming and excited about their creations! Being able to watch a child open up like that and feel comfortable enough to do so really fills your heart. I am excited to keep working with this organization and keep making these awesome moments happen!

I've had the pleasure of interning for drawchange over the past few months, and I'm so glad I was given the opportunity to do so! Every person I have worked with in drawchange are some of the most passionate and empathetic people I've had the pleasure of meeting, and you can really see the amount of care and drive that each member has to ensure that drawchange is at its best quality to serve the children we work with!

Drawchange has been amazing and really does end up being your own family as well, whether from a volunteering capacity or as a member or as a participating donor and anything in between. It has been amazing to see the amount of heart and effort that drawchange holds when it comes to achieving their mission to empower children. I highly, HIGHLY recommend looking into volunteering or donating to them, as they are not only tackling one of the hardest issues with the human condition - mental health - but are open and transparent about where their efforts and their resources are distributed so you can see for yourself the change they make!

I started interning for drawchange during the fall semester of my senior year in college, because I wanted to see what it would be like to work on the administrative side of nonprofit work. The people who volunteer and work for drawchange are all amazing individuals who are all motivated and accepting. I love the mission of drawchange, as it advocates for children who are not able to freely express their imagination at such a pivotal time in their lives.

I have been an intern since summer 2021 and this has been such a great experience for me! Working behind the scenes at drawchange and seeing all the hard work, effort, and detail that goes into every project and task shows how dedicated each team member is to spreading empowerment to children all around the world. I have also been to the shelters and it's fun and rewarding to interact with the children and see them grow through art, from our programming. It's honestly so amazing to see what drawchange does and stands for. Even after my internship ends I hope to continue volunteering at the shelters!

Before interning and volunteering at drawchange, I knew very little about art therapy for children. But watching the children that we work with respond so positively to the program has been an amazing experience. It has truly been a pleasure working with the drawchange family and all of the volunteers that consistently dedicate their time to the programs. This internship is by far the highlight of my academic career. And I look forward to volunteering when I can after my internship is over.

I am one of the partner organizations that drawchange serves. drawchange is an amazing organization that has a great impact on the children it serves. drawchange is a blessing to its partner organizations through providing enrichment programs that we could not provide without them! Thank you, drawchange!

Working with drawchange has been the highlight of my week. I highly recommend joining them for a session at one of the shelters or virtually.

Such an amazing non-profit! I’ve been volunteering with drawchange for the last few months and it’s been such a blessing to see the impact we’ve had on the lives of these children. It’s evident that the founder is passionate about the work she does.

Working with drawchange has been a life-changing experience for me. This organization has touched my life and heart in ways that can only truly be understood through working with the wonderful staff, volunteers, families, and children who make up the drawchange community.

I found drawchange through a Google search after teaching children art but wanting to go deeper with the meaning behind what I was doing. I knew art was more than just a fun activity to do for children -- I saw it as a tool for children to express, heal and grow in a way that didn't require using words.

The positive impact I've seen on the countless children I've connected with over the years through drawchange has been astonishing. From working at Atlanta homeless shelters to going on the drawchange Ethiopia trip twice to establish a lasting program to the impoverished children there, I've seen children open up and see more possibilities for their lives. I've seen children who were struggling to express their emotions become more emotionally-regulated and kind to themselves and those around them. I've seen children blossom in so many ways through the thoughtful curriculum drawchange provides to them -- especially if the child consistently joins sessions over time.

I HIGHLY recommend volunteering, donating, and getting involved with drawchange. This organization is making big moves and causing immense positive change for children in poverty, which ripples out to create positive change in the family, the community, the city, the state, the nation, the world.

Thank you, drawchange!!!

I have been with drawchange since 2019 and it is truly one of the best volunteer experiences and organizations as a whole. I've worn many different hats with the organization and I've loved every single one. It is nothing short of magical watching the children let go of life stresses while participating in a drawchange's art therapy-based session.

Drawchange has been a rewarding addition to my life. From my first introduction in 2017 to today the experience gets better as time goes on. As an art therapist, I am proud to be an addition to drawchange. My weekly sessions are fun, enlightening and heartwarming. The drawchange team is always mindful of the families and children they serve, being firm yet loving and caring. The best interest of the children is a must, ensuring that each week they are supported by amazing volunteers. I love seeing the excitement on the children's faces when we arrive. They not only have fun being creative but gain meaningful tools through the creative process to feel empowered. For me its reciprocal, in that I leave them feeling empowered and encouraged by their strength and creativity. I love sharing drawchange with young people who are looking to get into art therapy with a non profit because of the values and commitment drawchange is dedicated to. I Love it! ~ Jenéa

I have been working as an intern for drawchange since January 2021. I cannot even begin to describe how amazing drawchange is. From an intern perspective, this is the best experience I have ever had. From the perspective of what they accomplish, I have seen firsthand how drawchange can change the lives of children and cultivate a much-needed positive outlook on life in uncertain times. Overall, I am in love with everything about drawchange and I am excited to see everything they have planned for the future!

Amazing organization that really help children through the beauty of Art..

We love Drawchange. My daughter and I were active volunteers before Covid. What a meaningful and important cause. We have seen first hand the change in mood, demeanor and difference this program makes in the lives of so many homeless children. Art is the perfect outlet for them and the guidance and art exercises the program implements is the best. Its not just art, its guided meditation, breathing and relaxation techniques, and healthy outlets to express feelings.

So grateful we discovered Drawchange and so grateful to be a part of this amazing organization.

Allan Minter

I am currently working as an intern at drawchange and absolutely in love with this welcoming environment. It’s so wonderful to see how many children have been positively changed through art therapy-based programs and diligent work offering an open home environment for children to express themselves in a creative way. Knowing that I can be a part of this amazing organization and make an impact on children's lives means the world to me.

I have truly enjoyed my time interning here at drawchange. The people who are involved in this organization are passionate about helping share art with everyone. If you volunteer at the After School Art program, the shelters, or in the office, I promise that the children will make a larger impact on you than you could ever imagine. This is such an amazing organization and you will not regret volunteering here!

I am so thankful to have the opportunity to intern with such an amazing nonprofit that gives back to the community through art. I can tell that everyone who volunteers and who interns with drawchange is truly dedicated to the mission and is willing to go above and beyond in every way to make a difference for the children. I have not yet had the chance to spend one-on-one time with the children at the shelters, but I am still so glad that I get to have a positive impact on the organization and the mission in any way that I can. Just through the pictures, videos, and memories captured from the art sessions we hold, I have seen the impact that the programming and art have on the children, and it makes me so proud to be a part of drawchange. I'm looking forward to volunteering in person soon, and I'd 100% recommend you to do so as well!

I am honored to intern with such a motivated, caring, determined, and all-around AWESOME organization! Each and every person who works hard to make drawchange successful has a heart of gold, and the founder/CEO, Jennie Lobato, truly pours her heart and soul into drawchange. Although I have not had the opportunity to spend one-on-one time with the children, the supportive following we have proves that our organization not only changes lives but creates lasting, positive effects. I recommend volunteering with drawchange so that you can view the world in a different way!

Had such an amazing experience interning with drawchange! It is a wonderful organization filled with just as amazing people.

I've been an intern at drawchange for about three months now, and it's been one of the most amazing experiences I've had. They truly care about the children they're helping, and I've seen first-hand the impact that their art programs have on children. I'd highly recommend this organization to anyone looking to volunteer or donate!

Working with drawchange for the past 4 months has been a joy! I have been serving in an administrative role and I have seen first hand the integrity, passion, and mission-oriented mindset that goes into the "behind the scenes" work of drawchange. I have been trained to treat every individual that I communicate with on the phone, over email, or in-person with love and genuine care. You can be confident that whatever investment you make in drawchange- whether that be your time or money, will be respected used directly to serve the children who need it most. Through my experiences in the homeless shelters, I have seen first hand the impact that drawchange has on these children. Having a group of people who come on a weekly basis into the shelter with the purpose of seeing THEM, changes these children. I am grateful for my experiences with drawchange and look forward to many more!

Since I have started interning with drawchange, I have felt a sense of fulfillment from my work. I love seeing how the children get more comfortable and confident week to week in their art and in sharing with us. My time at the shelter as well as administrative work have allowed me to see how my work behind the scenes has a tangible effect on the children we work with. I have been very fortunate to find this internship position and to be able to work with such a diverse and hard-working team that truly cares about its impact on its community!

Interning at drawchange has allowed me to see the behind-the-scenes dedication and hard work behind the programming. Passion drives drawchange and I am honored to be in frequent communication with this team whose professionalism and detail-orientedness inspires me to be not only a better communicator and professional but a better activist. Drawchange fills a hole that the community is in desperate need of filling. Arts and art-therapy are such important tools for children to use and providing the service they do changes lives. The popular discourse surrounding homelessness often times forgets about caring for mental health which is a shame. I am so grateful that this organization exists and others should follow their example. Volunteer if you want to be a part of an inspiring and diverse volunteer base that makes a tangible difference through hands-on opportunities.

I've volunteered with many child-centric nonprofits in the past, mostly in a tutoring capacity. What I love most about drawchange in particular is how deliberate they are with planning and impacting the children and communities they work with. They have a deep understanding of a child's potential, and specifically curate activities that foster their growth and encourage self reflection. I'm happy to volunteer with drawchange because I know my time is going to a program that impacts the children who need it most on a personal level.

I have been volunteering with drawchange for almost 6 months now. While volunteering, I got the opportunity to see the kind of effort that goes in to putting together an event for kids. Jennie is a great administrator and she enjoys every moment being with kids. She has a great team supporting her cause and who shares the same level of enthusiasm and empathy as her. Jennie and her team put in meticulous planning and careful drafting in organizing events for kids.

By having firsthand knowledge of witnessing how kids enjoyed arts at one of her events, I was able to greatly appreciate drawchange's mission to encourage kids to get more exposure to arts. Kids really loved drawing and during that moment when they are fully immersed, it brings out their best creativity and it makes them to forget about other worries.

I wish Jennie and her team good luck in expanding her program to more and more areas and states spreading love and happiness!!

Drawchange is such an awesome organization. You can clearly see the passion for its mission in the founder, Jeannie, as well as the volunteers and other staff members involved. The children love it so much as well! Being a volunteer myself, I’ve witnessed first hand the joy they experience. I love the breathing exercises and imagination sessions we do. Having them learn these tools is so healthy and good! The leaders do a great job encouraging the children to have fun and create and then relate the activity back to life experiences. Cannot say enough great things about Drawchange!

I have been volunteering for Drawchange for several months now and I am glad I did! I was looking to do volunteering where I could really make a difference, work with nice people and work with children. I got all of that with Drawchange. I plan to continue volunteering for the organization and I am looking forward to see it grow. My favorite part each week is seeing the excitement in the kids’ faces when we show up.

Drawchange is filled with wonderful people all around! Their mission is truly inspiring and I'm so glad that I was given the opportunity to work with them. Volunteering at the Orlando Shelter was super fun and easy to find. The children are adorable and you can really see how their artwork encourages them and brings them joy. I really recommend volunteering, even just once, if you're trying to find a way to help out the community and like working with children.

I have been with drawchange for several months and want to share how great this organization is! The volunteers are all dedicated, compassionate people led by the organization's founder each week. Amazing connections are made while working with the children at the homeless shelters through expressive artwork and one on one communication. Everyone has a really good time - big smiles all around!

Drawchange is a wonderful organization run by a dedicated team of volunteers and staff. Jennie is incredibly passionate about the work that she does and you can clearly see how much love and hard work she puts into ensuring that the work drawchange does is successful. Their work makes a difference in improving the lives of children by inspiring them to dream and express themselves through art-therapy based programs. As an intern I thoroughly enjoy working for this organization and highly recommend volunteering with them!

I recently started as an intern with drawchange, and although I haven't been here long, I can already tell you what an amazing impact drawchange has had on the children that participate in the program! The activities each week are all well thought out and tailored to the children and what they are going through in their daily lives. Activities also allow the children to think of the big picture and what their hopes and dreams for their future can be. Being an intern I also see how dedicated the whole team of drawchange is in making sure that the children are getting the best experience possible. It is an amazing organization and I wish them every bit of success!

I have had the absolute pleasure of working for this incredible organization for over a year and a half and it has been such a wonderful experience! The founder/CEO is brilliant and has such compassionate heart. Having the opportunity to work with her day in and day out, I have been privileged to see the heartbeat and passion that lies at the very core of the organization that she started almost single-handedly over a decade ago. The work drawchange is doing with impoverished youth is empowering and life-changing - for ALL involved. This organization WILL make a difference in the Atlanta community and around the world through the use of art & creativity. It has been the greatest joy to witness and be a small part of :)

Drawchange is an outstanding nonprofit organization! I am currently an intern from Orlando, FL. This is a great opportunity for me as a college student because I am able to work alongside the CEO/founder Jennie Lobato. Her drive, vision, and passion is inspiring as she makes a difference in the lives of thousands of children. By having access to art supplies, the drawchange program is able to empower children to visualize a better future. Without a doubt, this organization has a strong impact: empowering our future generation. There are so many opportunities to grow, learn, and teach. I highly recommended working or volunteering here, it is a life-changing experience! Drawchange is more than an organization, it is a family, one I am very proud to be apart of.

I had the opportunity to witness the impact drawchange has on the lives of kids in the community. I was first exposed to drawchange almost a year ago. At that time I was volunteering as a tutor/mentor for the homeless youth in Atlanta through another non - profit. Drawchange would visit the transitional home on the same days I volunteered. I remember seeing and thinking how well these individuals were with kids. I even noticed how the art sessions would allow the kids to tap into their creativity, foster a positive outlook on themselves and their future, and also boost their moods. Fast forward, months later I received the opportunity to intern with this organization! Working at drawchange with founder/CEO, Jennie Lobato, and her administrative assistant, Megan Wartell, has been a great experience. They have taught me a lot about passion, hard work, patience, and many skills that will allow me to further succeed in life. Jennie cares immensely about empowering the impoverished youth and alleviating homelessness. Her passion and professionalism rub off on anyone who has the opportunity to work beside her on this journey. All of these factors are what fuel drawchange and what makes it a great non-profit! :)

Drawchange is an amazing non-profit organization to be a part of! I am currently an intern at drawchange, and it has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. Working with the founder/CEO, Jennie Lobato, has been a great honor because her vision to change the world is an inspiration. Having a role in what happens behind the scenes of the planning and management of the organization and how all the hard work positively affects impoverished children is a rewarding feeling. Without a doubt, drawchange has sparked a change in many children's lives. Drawchange's impact is a special one, and it is an amazing organization to volunteer and intern at, as well as to donate to.

Being an intern for drawchange has been a very rewarding experience! I have been given the opportunity to work with the CEO/founder, Jennie Lobato, on a weekly basis and develop many skills that I can apply to my future career goals. I have a huge passion for working with children, so volunteering at the homeless shelter's each week has been the best part of this experience. I love being able to provide art supplies and therapy techniques to children who don't have access to them regularly. I love being able to empower children that they can have a bright, positive, happy futures. Giving back to my community feels amazing!

I have been volunteering here for the past 7 months and the thing that keeps on bringing me back is knowing the work I put in is uplifting children experiencing homelessness. Putting a smile on a child's face through the power of art is a precious thing and a unique experience. Giving children the opportunity to explore their artistic talents can be life-changing and that's why this organization is important to me and the community. If you find yourself in the Atlanta area, I highly recommend you volunteer here so you can get a first-hand experience of seeing how the organization uses art to brighten up a child's life.

i have volunteered a numerous time with them and every single time, i felt special because i realised the work i was doing was helping children in need; i'm 100% sure more folk out there are looking to feel the same therefore one thing, come and join the dream.

I have been a volunteer for drawchange for almost a year it has honestly has changed my life in such a positive way. From day one I have seen a considerable difference with the children I have had the pleasure to meet. By using basic art supplies, drawchange encourages young children to express their feelings through art. The art sessions are not meant so they master a skill, but to feel free in their abilities to create art, when they're in situations where they are restricted. We come in and bring consistency, from breathing exercises before the sessions begin, to how we behave as volunteers, like giving positive reinforcement when they say 'please' and 'thank you'. By being consistent, it is something the children can look forward to, and it also gives me something to look forward to.
This is an organization that I want to be a part of for a long time. I want to see drawchange expand in many parts all over the world, which I say it already has in a couple parts and hope to visit soon!

Though I only experienced volunteering with Drawchange for a few months before I moved away from Atlanta, it left a lasting impression on me. In the weekly art sessions Jennie and her team are able to bring so much to the kids who have very little. The vehicle is art, but the impact is so much greater - the children (of all ages) are introduced to respect, discipline, healthy expression, and self-worth. It is heart wrenching to know that this may be the only time of the week where they experience these virtues, but it makes it very rewarding to be able to help in a small way.

Drawchange is a fantastic organization doing important work on behalf of homeless youth in the Atlanta community and beyond. As one of the few nonprofits providing access to art/ music therapy and creative self-expression for children in local shelters, drawchange enables vulnerable kids with the chance to enjoy many forms of art-making -- including their very own art shows from time to time! The diverse and committed volunteers at drawchange, and particularly founder Jennie L., express their unconditional support for the children with great compassion, care and expertise . As a donor and volunteer, I've witnessed many magic and joyful moments unfold, as trust, hope, dreams and encouragement blossom between staff and the children. The benefits of drawchange's program have long-term impact and are helping to break the cycle of poverty for these kids and I will be a lifelong supporter. Thank you for all you give so generously, drawchange!

These precious kids at the homeless shelters where drawchange collaborates by bringing huge smiles to their faces, through many creative activities, that gives them hope, laughter, confidence, and free expression, are so priceless! I'm always in awe when I volunteer.

The joy of working with children at the family homeless shelters where drawchange operates, is a feeling money can't buy. The huge smile on the kids faces from getting a rewarding experience with being able to learn and participate in many creative activities, with free expression of oneself, is priceless!!!

I have been active with "drawchange" over the pass 6 years. This organization is well run. I feel very confident in donating to this organization as the funds I have donated have been used as requested. Jennie Lobato, founder and CEO of drawchange, is a tireless advocate for children. She and her small staff work tirelessly to fund and coordinate art activities and self esteem projects for children of all ages . Whether it is in impoverished area of Costa Rica,villages in Ethiopia or Homeless shelters in Atlanta, she brings smiles and moments of pride to children in a positve unjudgemental manner. She coordinates activities but also goes with the flow if a rainstorm or disruption of a planned event happens. The kids have a good time always. She trains her volunteers and makes sure they are properly screened before interacting with the children. I have been on 3 trips with her to Costa Rica and sponsor 3 children there. The people she coordinates with at Fatima School are fantastic. I know that the funds I have sent have been used for their education and school clothes not frivilously. Anyone looking for a nonprofit to donate to would be well satisfied with their investment should they choose drawchange.

Hi, my name is CJ, and I recent got the opportunity to go to Ethiopia with drawchange. I have volunteered in Atlanta with the organization for the past year, and it has been nothing but amazing. Everyone involved with the organization has such amazing passion for bringing art to the children, who benefit so much from it. I'm so glad that I got to experience the foreign outreach part of the drawchange organization because that is one of the great unbelievable things about art, it has no language barrier. Jennie's hard work, and organization made the trip so rewarding. Anyone that has volunteered with drawchange before should consider participating in Art Without Borders trip to Ethiopia.

My experience with drawchange Inc has been impeccable. Every time I go to the shelters, I think I am going to help childen in need, but the children always have something to teach me. Each child reminds me how important life is, reminding me how giving my time and energy is always valuble to them. Giving the love of art to children is essential to build future generations.

It is amazing to watch the growth process of the children from each class. In each class, each child grows from sometimes feeling insecure, unsure or uncontrollable to feeling more confident, loving and kind. This growth process transforms the students into empowered artists.

I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of this non-profit and to help out my community.

I am an intern at drawchange, and I absolutely love working for an organization that has a cause that I support 100%. I get to see everyone that works and volunteers in the office just pour all of their efforts into making drawchange the best it can be for the children. All of the countless supplies gathered, lesson plans put together, and so much more are just a fraction of the tasks tasks that are completed everyday to make the most effective impact on the homeless children. drawhchange is all about empowering the children that we work with to know that they are more than just the situation they are in. The art therapy goes even further than that by helping the children gain skills that they can carry with them for the rest of their life. You can spend just 10 minutes with the children and see how much they enjoy the outlet drawchange provides for them. The children are why everyone works so hard, and volunteering or working with them makes everything worth it.

I've had the opportunity now to volunteer with drawchange several times over the past couple of months. This program is much needed in the Atlanta area. As an art therapist, I believe it is so important for people, especially children and adolescents, to be able to have a voice and to feel that they have a sense of control over their lives and their feelings. With drawchange, art is the vehicle that makes that happen.

I started volunteering at drawchange about 3 months ago and it’s been a great experience! I sometimes give a hand at their office or I go with them at one of the homeless shelter to do art with the kids. Both are equally fun and Jennie and her team are all very nice and welcoming. It has been so incredible being with the kids, One can really see how happy it makes them to do these art projects, be it simply by having the opportunity to focus on something else than whatever is going on in their life right now. drawchange always comes up with meaningful yet simple projects to do, encouraging the kids to talk and help them realize that they can achieve their goals and come out of their cycle of poverty.
What's also great about volunteering at drawchange is that there are plenty of opportunities to get involved so that something will most likely fit your schedule and willingness to help :)

I first met the founder Jennie Lobato about 4 years ago at a networking event. I was so inspired about her vision and mission at drawchange! I began volunteering with her at homeless shelters here in Atlanta to empower these kids through art, to break the cycle of poverty, to love, support, see and hear these children! I joined the draw change.org team as a behavioral therapist this year.
What I see year after year is consistency in the devotion to these kids through art, visualization, fun, and love! I see the amazing strength of the human spirit when I am with these kids. They connect, continue to dream and create their lives when given this time and space for creation!!

It is an honor and a priviledge!

Sincerely,

Pam Brooks-Crump, MBA
CPS, CARES, MI, CC

My experience with Drawchange has been amazing. Being with the children and seeing them smiling, was always the highlight of my day. The other volunteers as well were great! It's a wonderful environment to be a part of and its always so much fun being with the kids!

DrawChange, like many non-profit organizations, is a loving and inspiring organization with people that commit all their energy and efforts into making a difference. However, what really stood out to me is how much our time and attention makes a difference for the kids on a weekly basis. We work with homeless kids so there is a priority to meet their basic needs to function properly, but that only goes so far. This organization alleviates an emotional and creative void that is often overlooked for children that may not have an outlet to express those abilities. Additionally, this organization is lead by one of the most driven, attentive, and innovative women I have ever met. It's the details and small gestures that really put DrawChange over the top.

Drawchange is one of the most inspiring nonprofits I've come across. They genuinely care about the children they are working with and it's a true joy every opportunity I get to volunteer! If you have the opportunity I definitely recommend volunteering at least once. It may even change your life!

As a military veteran, I've been a volunteer/mentor for several organizations/programs around the world and Drawchange is by far the BEST program I've been a part of. This program is a success because of the passion that Jennie and the staff displays each week. They help bring out the talent/creativity from each kid. Each week I look forward to interacting with the kids and watch them express themselves thru art. It is such a joy to see them smile and take pride in their artwork.

Drawchange is a great organization. The kids and volunteers always have so much fun with activities like music, coloring, games, etc. Jeanie the founder is such a great person and she works very hard setting up at all the events! I recommend this charity to anyone!!!

Non-profits are only as strong as those who are a part of it -- and Drawchange has some of the most incredible, passionate and empowering people within it. Drawchange has personally changed my life. It gave me a way to give back and help others using my creative skills. To see the children's attitudes change throughout art lessons is amazing. To see the happiness and confidence and empowerment that it brings them. I was able to travel two years with Drawchange to Costa Rica for the Art Beyond Borders trip. Art transcended language, age and culture on those trips. It was beautiful. I am forever grateful for the impact that Drawchange has made in my life and I highly recommend working with this organization if you can!

I started volunteering with DrawChange back in Septemeber. It has become the highlights of my week. Art has always been a passion of mine along with children. I love seeing the power of art and the effects it has on these children in a positive manner. The enthusiasm in the students during the process and while sharing the creations makes our time valuable. It is a great feeling knowing you have helped instill a calming stress relieving skill in these children whether it be the meditative breathing or the art. They will have a life skill to carry and inspire them through the hills and valleys of life.

I started volunteering with Drawchange at one of the shelters they work with in January, and I look forward to it every week! As an artist and art educator, I strongly believe the power the arts has on children, and Drawchange just seems to get it. Art time at the shelters gives the children there the possibility to express themselves by providing guided expressive arts activities and supplies-- a possibility many children do not receive in schools or home. It's apparent how crucial these opportunities can be as the kids start diving into their artwork, have a chance to feel proud of their pieces at Drawchange art shows and weekly show and tell, and break into smiles as soon as volunteers they know enter. The leaders in the organization truly care about their cause, committing 100%, and all resources go directly to the children. I've really enjoyed getting to know the children that come to Drawchange art-making night at the shelter. I'm excited to see this nonprofit organization grow.
If you are looking for a local nonprofit to volunteer with or donate to, I would highly recommend Drawchange. There are countless ways to contribute time-- office hours at the Goat Farm, working directly with children in art therapy activities at Atlanta shelters, various events like Family Days, student art exhibitions, and even art education outreach trips internationally.

I began volunteering in September 2014 and over a year and a half later, going to the shelter every Thursday and now Monday as well, continues to be the highlight of my week. drawchange made more of an impact on me than I could put into words and I'll be forever grateful for the moments working with these children that I will never forget.

I have been volunteering for drawchange since March 2015, and it has been a truly humbling experience. I have taught art to children in the past, but I felt that I was missing something in my work. I felt that bringing art into children's lives should mean more than just an activity to pass the time, like it can be for many children. When I found drawchange, I found a way to positively impact children's lives in a meaningful way. Having been with the organization for a year now, I have seen the benefits of drawchange's empowering curriculum and how it has impacted the lives of the children we work with. Not only is the organization beneficial for the children, but it impacts the volunteers as well! I love giving back to my community and knowing that I'm making a difference in the world. I plan on volunteering for the organization as long as I stay in Atlanta. Drawchange has truly changed my life!

I volunteered several years ago for the first time with an event sponsored by Drawchange. I was so impressed with the organization and the spirit and warmth of all of those connected with Drawchange. Since then I have followed many of the projects that Drawchange that has been and is involved with using art and the arts to better children's lives. This past year I decided to sponsor a child at the Fatima School in Cartago, Costa Rico. Let me tell you it is a wonderful experience to receive a letter, perhaps a drawing, and a photograph from the child you sponsor. Drawchange truly changes lives through art.

I sponsor a child at the Fatima school in Cartago Costa Rica through Drawchange and was able to travel with the organization there in July 2015. I have seen pictures of the school from the first 5 years of the program and how it gradually blossomed in appearance. This year I was able to witness the change myself and see the pride everyone has in their school. I truly believe that bringing art into the school has empowered everyone, from the students to the staff, and there is now hope for a brighter future. Spending time with my sponsor child was icing on the cake. She loves basketball, as do I, and wants to be a doctor.

Check out Drawchange for volunteer opportunities (in Atlanta or another country) or to sponsor a child. Either will be very rewarding.

I have volunteered with Drawchange for 3 years now and can see the relationship going on for many more to come. I am not all that close to Atlanta and every endeavor requires a lot of time for me. I've helped plan and execute the first 5k, gone to Costa Rica twice (and am about to embark on my third trip) to help out the children of the Los Diques community at Fatima School, worked at a few homeless shelters in Atlanta and helped out with an incredible art auction downtown. I have invested a lot of time, money, travel and sweat into this organization and it's mission. I value my time above most things and would not have given all that I have were it not for the amazing founder of this organization, Jennie Lobato. Getting to know Jennie over the years, it struck me that it was almost impossible to have a conversation about anything without drawchange coming up. As I got to know her, I came to understand that it is because there is almost no separation between the two. She lives and breathes this organization and almost every decision she makes comes with it's impact on her organization coming first. Beyond her commitment, Jennie has proven herself to be a great leader possessing not just the vision for her creation but the ability to carry it out. She is clear in her directions, concise in her requests and always has the volunteers in mind, seconded only by her goals for the children's lives she impacts. Her inclusion is also way above par. Her organization is based on the impacts that art can have on children, BUT you do not have to be an artist to help. A fact that secured my help many times over as I am about as artistic as a chicken scratching for a bug in the dirt. If you have an inclination to make a tangible difference in the life of some children that need it the most, monetarily or by getting your hands dirty, drawchange is a more than worthy choice.

Drawchange is an exceptional organization that provides something crucial for kids: hope through art. Art has always been an important part of my life, and I was thrilled to find an organization that cares so much about changing lives through art in many ways. Our family sponsors a wonderful little girl in Costa Rica named Tatiana, and we have built a relationship with her through cards, letters, and drawings. My daughter really enjoys hearing from someone who speaks Spanish, not to mention we all share a love for animals. (Oh, and they both love the color pink.) Hearing how grateful Tatiana was when someone finally sponsored her reaffirmed what I already knew - that we were doing something life-changing for ALL of us. I am really thankful that drawchange has given all of us this opportunity. It feels amazing knowing we're not only providing an impoverished child with money but also hope for a brighter future. Even a little hope goes such a long way to a child who needs it. Jennie is a genuinely compassionate and special person, and you can trust that whatever you donate will be handled responsibly. We love Jennie and drawchange!

The first time I volunteered at Drawchange, I noticed that most of the children eagerly express their feelings through the art. Their creativity has a language that portrays the way the see the world. Having the opportunity to connect with them is a blessing because by assisting them with their creative work, I am connecting with my own inner child. I am also impressed to see adults, as well as young volunteers. I enjoy being a part of such a beautiful cause.
--Yvette

Volunteering with drawchange is the highlight of my week! Connecting with these children through art brings out the child in me, too. I am consistently affirmed and inspired by the projects we do together, and you can see a physical transformation in the students from when they enter the art room to when they leave at the end of the session. I believe whole heartedly that empowering artistic expression in these children helps them envision a brighter future: a future they are able to create for themselves, using their intrinsic strength, talent, and imagination. I love this organization, and have the utmost respect for its founder. She is on a mission to change the world, and it's an honor to pitch in.

I have been involved with drawchange from its inception. I continue to be impressed with the commitment and compassion it brings to those it serves.

drawchange serves locally with art programs which reach out to underprivileged and homeless children bringing hope through possibility. It serves grieving children with art therapy that enables emotional expression and release.
drawchange also serves globally by taking art supplies, curriculum, food, supplies, and sustainable gardening to impoverished communities in third-world countries.

drawchange art programs are carefully designed to unlock a downtrodden child's imagination by guiding their own natural creativity. From there, a child can imagine a better world for him or herself. And if they can think it, they can make it happen.

I'm so impressed by this young organization. It's well run with a positive, can-do attitude.

I have served on a number of boards, and I have been more honored to be affiliated with an organization.

Keep up the awesome work, drawchange!

I have been involved with drawchange for the past 2 years. I've volunteered in several capacities including helping start a benefit 5K run, working with children at a local homeless shelter, going to Costa Rica to empower impoverished children, financially contributing monthly and varies other efforts to help drawchange move forward. I was recently approved to become a board member and I'm excited to provide another level of service to this organization. Jennie is incredibly selfless and very passionate about the vision of bringing art to deserving children so they may expand their current outlook on life. I'm immensely proud to be affiliated with both Jennie and drawchange. If you're looking for a worthy cause to donate your time and resources, you've found the right place.

As a Drawchange volunteer, I have been greatly touched by the inner beauty and resiliency of children who are dealing with extreme life challenges (poverty, abusive homes, homelessness, incarcerated parents, etc.). Jennie, the founder and facilitator of Drawchange, works incredibly hard to provide both a creative outlet and loving stability in the lives of these children.

Drawchange also helps to bridge a social gap between "us" and "them," providing opportunities not only for children, but for people in our community to connect together in positive, empowering ways, regardless of age or social and economic status. I love Drawchange and appreciate Jennie immensely for her powerful contribution to Atlanta, as well as to our collective world community.

This is an incredible organization that does important work in our community. With the average age of the homeless being 9 years old, DrawChange focuses on empowering the ones who need it most, the youth. I've volunteered numerous times and walk away more inspired and motivated to make a lasting difference in our world. Thank you DrawChange for the impact you are making in our world.

I have been involved with drawchange since it's inception. I am constantly inspired by the passion behind the organization. I have sat on a number of boards in my life and currently sit on some very large ones and I can unbiasly state that drawchange is a wonderful organization. Keep up the great work!

I AM A FORMER BOARD MEMBER WHO WAS FORCED OUT BECAUSE I INSISTED ON PROPER FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY. THE CEO / BOARD CHAIR FLATLY REFUSED TO GET PRO BONO ACCOUNTING HELP THAT SHE DESPERATELY NEEDS. THEY DO NOT HAVE ACCURATE AND ORGANIZED FINANCES. I HAVE SERIOUS CONCERNS ABOUT THE USE OF DONATIONS AND ACCOUNTABILITY. THEIR BOARD CHAIR IS ALSO CEO AND SHE HAS A FIDUCIARY CONFLICT OF INTEREST. THE OTHER BOARD MEMBERS ARE ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL. PLEASE ASK FOR THEIR FINANCIALS BEFORE YOU CONSIDER DONATING, JOINING THE BOARD OR APPROVING OF A GRANT.

Jeannie and Drawchange is one of the most compassionate and reliably run charities I've ever worked with. I'm glad to be a part of it. I would highly commend and recommend Drawchange for anyone who wants to make a difference.

I've sponsored a child in Costa Rica through draw/change for several years. It has been a most rewarding experience. Jennie Lobato is a wonderful motivator, organizer and all round fabulous person. She keeps us informed of "our" child's activities and we receive cards and notes on a regular basis. For a small amount of money donated each month, outstanding work is being done at Fatima school and the community. The rewards of sponsorship are truly many and life changing for us and for the children.

Sandy W.

I've been volunteering with drawchange for over 3 years. I've taken two trips with them to Costa Rica to volunteer at the Fatima school in Cartago. I've also volunteered at fundraisers, special events and local homeless shelters. All of the events are run professionally and always with the children's best interest at heart. Jennie Lobato, the founder of drawchange, has a genuine compassion for the children. She is selfless and passionate for what she does everyday. If we all had the courage to lead by her example the world would be a better place.

I am now sponsoring a child in Costa Rica and have been donating for over a year. I am very comfortable knowing the money is going to the children and toward their needs. drawchange has clearly communicated how my donation will be used and I believe the founder is very responsible in ensuring the donations are going to each sponsor child.

The connection and empowerment that is poured into the children by creativity is astonishing. To watch the transformation of each individual by controlling the materials and freely using imagination is undeniably cathartic and therapeutic for these children. This program that Jennie facilitates undoubtably enhances each child's quality of life, outlook, and self-image.

drawchange is a really awesome idea brought to life. The theory that children need art is supported by the obvious positive impact on the children. I would advise anyone who wants to be involved involved in the community in a fun, meaningful way to volunteer for a drawchange activity. Follow this link for more information on how to become a volunteer with drawchange. CHILDREN NEED ART http://drawchange.org/activities/ :)

I have been volunteering with Drawchange at homeless shelters in Atlanta for a few months, and have loved every minute of it. We have had groups of up to twelve or so children come to the sessions to work on art projects that founder Jennie Lobato has thoughtfully selected and planned to widen the children's awareness of the world and the possibilities open to them. Jennie has recruited a great group of volunteers who are fun to work with, too! She is very knowledgeable about the struggles of the kids and I have learned a lot from her on how to connect with them and help them understand the lessons such as compassion and self-esteem that underlie the projects we do. It is a testimony to Jennie's great caring and ability to capture their interest that many of them look forward to coming back each week!

I am so blown away by this organization and the selflessness of it's founder, Jennie Lobato. I am a firm believer in the power of art therapy and I am glad to know there is an organization who puts this into practice for children who might never have access to, yet deeply need encouragement and intellectual stimulation. Second to shelter and food, I believe that drawchange is meeting vital needs of children without guaranteed homes and stability. Those who volunteer also receive amazing personal and emotional benefits by witnessing the change in these kids.

This organization is working.

I met Jennie a few months ago and already she has changed my life in more ways than are relevant for this review. But most importantly, she introduced me to her NPO Drawchange where I have left every volunteer session with a lighter heart, warm, fuzzy and teary-eyed. The at-risk children she works with seem to leave their cares and worries at the doors and dive into fun self-expressive art projects, tonight's art project was about compassion and it was a beautiful miracle to watch these kids draw what compassion means to them, sound out the word to spell, share their art with each other. The smiles, the giggles and singing are a miracle to witness. Bless all these kids, their families and Jennie and her amazing team of dedicated volunteers.

I. LOVE. DRAWCHANGE. I was previously skeptical about art therapy. I thought it was more of an opinion than anything else. But I couldn't have been more wrong! As a volunteer that actually went to the shelter and used art therapy for at-risk children, it was clear that it has the power to inspire, and actually change lives! At the beginning of each session, some of the newcomers would come in feeling cranky. But by the end of the class, they would be so proud to display their dreams in art form! They would hang it over their beds at night so that they could look forward to accomplishing their goals.

The founder, Jennie Lobato, is probably the nicest and most hardest working person you'll ever meet! She makes volunteering so easy. It's easy to become discouraged by the red tape surrounding some charities, but Jennie makes this process simple and hassle-free by quickly responding to each applicant. She inspires me to help people and be a good person. Thank you Jennie!

When I first volunteered for drawchange, it was mainly to add a piece to my graphic design portfolio which sounds awful but it is the truth. Then, Jennie, the founder, asked me to work with her on the children's magazine "Art & Pinta Say 'Let's Create!'" and I became more involved in caring about the things that drawchange does for children. I fully believe and support the good that drawchange does. As an artist, I know how important art is in my life and I see how drawchange brings art into the lives of children who need it most. I always pick this foundation as my first non-profit to give my time or monetary support to when I have it. I hope that drawchange keeps growing to help out more and more children around the world.

What Drawchange has become is a direct reflection of its founder, Jennie Lobato. I've known Jennie my entire life and have known her to be selfless, dedicated, and always working towards a higher purpose. So could it be any wonder that the altruistic, forward thinking, and above all life changing organization she's created could be anything less than the standard that any non profit organization could possibly hope to be? In the face of this gold standard, this is a rhetorical question indeed!

I am proud to say that I am a continuous volunteer for drawchange. This was my second year traveling to Costa Rica to empower the Fatima kiddies. I can honestly say that this organization is truly a motivating factor to make a difference in the world. Drawchange is led by Jennie Lobato, an amazing human being and has proven from time to time, that the organization's work has led to outstanding results. Traveling to Costa Rica a second time, I saw the impact we have had on these children. Our team worked extremely hard and we will never forget our experiences that has shaped our newly founded ideology of the significance of art and volunteerism. Year three, here I come!

Have donated to this organization, sponsored children and been on a mission trip with them to Costa Rica. An excellent organization

I am new to Drawchange and look forward to becoming more involved as soon as I can. Art and children hold a dear spot in my heart as they do in Jennie Lobato's as evidenced by her tireless work. I love to see the pictures of the trips and the children's smiling faces. Art not only brings smiles and hope to these children, it nourishes their minds. Art is an important tool that can be used to help raise these children above the status they are born into. I help spread the word as much as possible because I believe Drawchange is doing good work, and I feel strongly about children and art.

I traveled to Costa Rica with a team of DrawChange volunteers. Our leader, Jennie Lobato, was amazing. She organized the entire trip and has an excellent relationship with the staff at the school where we worked with the children. There were 10 volunteers who participated and the teamwork was incredible...no other group of mostly strangers could possibly be as effective. We all realized that this effort was for the children and that was our only agenda. It was good to hear Jennie say that in this, her fourth year, she sees hope on the faces of the children that they can rise up from their impoverished beginnings and create whatever they want in their lives. It was a pleasure and an honor to be on this DrawChange trip. I look forward to next year.

I had the opportunity to volunteer for drawchange and it has been a great experience all around for me. What drew me to drawchange was the selfless vision and the passion with which the program is run. A great organization!

I am privileged to sponsor a child in Costa Rica through the Drawchange program. This child has multiple medical issues and is unable to attend school on a regular basis, but has a lovely spirit and I enjoy receiving updates from her mother as to her life and her condition. Jennie is gracious enough to pass along these updates and offers to translate for me. It takes so little to make such a big difference. I am so proud that my son is making the trip to volunteer at the Fatima School this summer and I am planning to send along a small gift for him to take to Yailyn for me in the hope that it will brighten her day a bit. The mission of Drawchange is unique as it sparks creativity in children who don't necessarily see a lot of beauty in their every day surroundings. It teaches them that there are opportunities for kindness and generosity no matter what their circumstance. The outreach to not only the children of Costa Rica, but to the homeless shelters and other venues in Atlanta and other urban areas offers the chance for budding artists to expand their horizons and to escape into the world of possibilities limited only by their own imaginations. Jennie is a marvel and her volunteers go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of so many. They are to be commended and congratulated for giving so selflessly and so effectively. I hope the word gets out and the donations flood in to this worthy organization so that they can continue to do such fabulous work.

Last year's trip with the drawchange team was thoroughly eye-opening and unequaled to anything I had ever experienced in my country before. Here, the Los Diques community is widely known as a place to stay away from "if you know what's good for you." I was scared.

After our visit, I sorely felt the overwhelming silence of new found ignorance. To know that I am a fortunate human being, living in comfortable conditions which allow me to sit here typing this into a computer, is worlds different to BEING THERE and SEEING what I had only previously known.

These people do GOOD work and if they can brighten up the lives of these children, if only for a few hours a day, that is already invaluable.

The core of drawchange lies in Jennie's honest-to-goodness passion for the empowerment of these children and the embellishing of the environments they live in. She is genuinely welcoming, kind and encouraging.

There was never a moment when I didn't feel valuable, appreciated and capable of accomplishing something, and there is no doubt that she elevates these children into feeling the same way.

When you work with drawchange, there is never any doubt that all the thoughts are in the absolute correct place. Their mission to provide children with art supplies is kept at the core of all the efforts they make. The transparency lets you know exactly what is happening and being accomplished. A newsworthy and word-of-mouth appropriate non-profit group.

I had the wonderful opportunity to work with drawchange and it's awesome founder Jennie Lobato on an exploratory journey to Ethiopia. Witnessing it first hand, Jennie's passion for the arts and empowering children is extraordinary. I look forward to working with drawchange in the near future especially the partnership(s) in Ethiopia. It was one of the most rewarding experiences I've had in a very long time! Way to go drawchange!!!!!!! Keep up the great work!!!!!!!! :-)

Drawchange is one of my favorite nonprofit organizations largely because of the compassion of it's founder and CEO Jennie Lobato.I had the wonderful experience of traveling to Costa Rica to work with the students at the Fatima School. Being a retired educator it was great to once again have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children. I highly reccommend Drawchange and look forward to working with them in the future.

Drawchange, under the leadership of Jennie Lobato, has been a great influence in my life, in my church's life, in the local community and the world. I am very pleased to be affiliated with them and to support them. They are kind, positive and helpful. They bring art, art supplies, love and hope to those in the world who have so little. I wholeheartedly support them and the good work that they do!

It would be impossible to share the difference drawchange makes in the lives of poor children in a short statement like this. I have participated in multiple drawchange projects both locally and on the world stage - and it has changed my life. It is not what WE do that makes the difference, but the love the CHILDREN share with us! We take them art experience, art instruction, and the ability to be left alone with great supplies to create whatever they want to create. Doing this, they learn that they can create beauty in their world, that they can be in control of at least a part of their world - their creativity. Hopefully, this will cause a sense of empowerment to be fostered in the children, and they will learn that they have the power to break the cycle of poverty and help themselves and their family members in multiple ways. Drawchange is an excellent organization, my favorite non-profit, and one that deserves to receive recognition and kudos for the great work they are doing in the world.

drawchange sponsors a trip each year to visit impoverished children, and bring to them an experience of creating art and enjoying team recreation. This year it was to Cartago, Costa Rica, where 400 children, who live in a shanty town, participated in their program. Additionally, drawchange coordinates sponsorships of individual children, giving them the chance to afford a few of the niceties that would otherwise be out of their reach. I partipated in this year's trip, and was astonished by the impact such a simple gesture has on these children.

When I first applied to help provide Illustrations for Drawchange INC's magazine to help raise funds, I honestly did not know what this organization did. When I went to their website and got the whole perspective on what they do along with the services they are providing to children and the communities they live in, I was touched. With the recent cut backs on art programs in the world today, Drawchange INC's mission to bring art to these communities that lack art within the community is a huge feat that is not easy to do. The great thing about Drawchange INC is it doesn't just stop at bringing art supplies and art projects to communities, Drawchange INC also works with other organizations to bring food, shelter and other needs to communities that need it in it's home town of Atlanta. Drawchange INC is such a great non profit that if it had more exposure to more people, I think it would be a stronger non-profit and be able to reach more communities that need this service to help make more communities stronger with the power of art. The CEO of the non profit group, Jennie Lobato, is a great leader, very passionate about her work and is a pleasure to work with. When I volunteered my artistic skills, she was always kind and provided me with her honest opinion, but always took my knowledge about how to make the artwork work for her cause with an open ear. I believe the world will always need art and having Drawchange INC around to bring art into communities that need this crucial form of expression within it is a must need for the world today.

Drawchange is inspiring children to see a promising future for themselves while developing their self-esteem and creativity. As a volunteer on two trips to Costa Rica, I have seen the joy in the children's hearts as they explore, create, and express their personal visions. I wholeheartedly support the mission of this great organization!

Drawchange is an amazing organization. I've had the pleasure of working closely with the founder of the organization "Jennie Lobato" for many years. She is a truly an inspiration to everyone around her. She took Drawchage from a thought to selfless staple that truly gives back to the community. I'm so proud to apart of this amazing movement.

Until I volunteered with drawchange I didn't truly understand the impact art could have on children. I was at an event where none of the children spoke English, and although it was difficult to get the kids to understand the steps of the project, as I demonstrated each step, their eyes lit up and they followed along. They worked together, and the English language wasn't necessary. Art is a language we can all understand, and it brings us together no matter the culture, economics or language barriers. drawchange is truly a life changing non-profit for children and I am honored to be a part of it. This is the type of business we need to keep alive, to keep hope and dreams alive for our children who have nothing else except their own hopes and dreams.

It wasn't until I went to Costa Rica with drawchange that I experienced the full impact of what bringing art experiences to children can do. Individual self-worth and confidence grew from day to day and even project to project. It was inspiring to see the abundance of happiness and gratitude a little crayon and glitter brought. All children need art to grow and express themselves - drawchange just brings it to those that aren't fortunate enough to have exposure to it. Such a worthwhile concept from such a loving organization.

helping kids through art is so much fun, the smiles and ideas that were introduced to young minds was incredibly breathtaking. it also helped me with great ideas through art.

Great organization with a wonderful mission. Up...up...up...we go!!!!

I've been a drawchange virtual volunteer since September 2011. So far, it's been a tremendous experience. I started off as a researcher, putting together a paper about the therapeutic effects of art for underprivileged children; and I am currently assisting Jennie (founder, CEO) in organizing data for the Costa Rican Child Sponsorship Program. I enjoy working with Jennie very much. She always responds to emails and is very precise in delegating assignments.

I found Drawchange through VolunteerMatch.org in February 2011, drawn to their mission and belief that art is absolutely crucial to one's well-being, especially in children. It's been a great experience. Jennie (the founder + CEO) is a wonderful person to work with-- intelligent, friendly, always willing to help me out with my questions whenever I have them. She also makes a point of including me in as many things as possible to keep me informed and aware of where current (and future) projects are headed. Regardless of the specific tasks I'm working on for Drawchange (which range from research that support grant proposals as well as international trips/events, contacting prospective volunteers, and miscellaneous admin support), Jennie always emphasizes how important it is that they're completed to allow the organization to focus on its goal: providing art to kids who need it most. It's this that makes me feel like an integral part of drawchange & that I'm helping them make a difference, however small my part may be.