Anthony S. + Art
Anthony finds his purpose through the art program that helped him discover his passion. Now, he helps other individuals with disabilities follow their dreams too.
Anthony S.
Civitan Artists
It was clear from the beginning Anthony was destined to become an accomplished artist.
But without access to the right programs and people to support his growth, and the opportunity to try something new, he may never have uncovered his true calling.
The summer before he graduated from high school, Anthony joined a Civitan art class because it sounded fun. Little did he know, he’d discover a latent talent for and love of art. His first canvas, though not a professional masterpiece, showed clear raw talent. Anthony was a quick study and got hooked on art immediately, and joined other members in regular art classes taught by professional artist Merilee Adams.
Members with a strong interest in art like Anthony joined Civitan Artists (initially known as Civitan’s Fine Art Group) to hone their skills and debut their work in the community.
Anthony moved into Civitan programs full-time after he graduated. He quickly built a body of work and became an accomplished artist. Even then, his generosity and thoughtfulness in teaching other members went above and beyond.
Phoenix Center of the Arts Festival was Anthony’s first big opportunity to share his work. His pieces were showstoppers, he was a natural salesperson and he enjoyed swapping stories with buyers at the show.
“Anthony became empowered through art and elevated our program.” – Merilee Adams, Art Director
Anthony eventually entered the workforce full-time and was no longer a member of Civitan’s programs. On the side, he developed his own art business, continuing to show his pieces throughout the community and refurbishing furniture for clients. It wasn’t long before Anthony missed his time and team at Civitan, and wanted a way to give back to the program that helped him gain independence and a love for art.
Civitan happily welcomed Anthony back to volunteer. After two years serving the program in his spare time, he was recently hired to staff the art program he helped develop.
Nine years after walking into an art class at Civitan “just for the fun of it,” he’s now an employee on staff teaching other members how to develop their skills just like he did. His beautiful art hangs in Civitan’s galleries, as well as the homes and businesses of his clients throughout the Valley.
Today, Anthony sets an example for other members as a role model for what they can do.
Anthony has found new purpose through the art program that helped him discover his biggest passion. Now, he helps other individuals with disabilities follow their dreams too.
His story is just one example of the IMPACT your donations can have on the lives of individuals with disabilities when you give to Civitan programs today.