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Yes Arts director details recovery and youth programs, seeks sustainable funding
Summary
Yes Arts executive director Elle Travis briefed the fiscal court on recovery, youth-prevention and community arts work funded by federal and state grants, noted partnerships with local schools and nonprofits and said the organization seeks sustainable donor cultivation to maintain growth.
Elle Travis, executive director of Yes Arts (formerly Hands Healing Hearts), presented the nonprofit’s annual update to the Franklin County Fiscal Court, outlining three program areas: recovery, youth prevention and community outreach.
Travis described evidence‑based programming supported by federal SAMHSA grants and state opioid funding, partnerships with local school districts and nonprofits, and an emphasis on trauma‑informed care and training for staff. She highlighted a transitional employment mentorship program that employs high school students, a community art series open to the public, and recovery‑focused art therapy for adults. She said Yes Arts served "over 25 youth in direct services last year" and listed program metrics including sessions, outreach activities and scholarships.
Travis noted the group’s recent recognition — a governor’s award in the arts for community impact — and said the organization is focusing on building sustainable funding and donor relationships so those services remain free or reduced-price for participants.
Judge Mueller and other court members thanked the group for its partnerships with county programs, schools and public safety agencies and recommended continued advocacy for local funding and volunteer support to help sustain growth.
"Our mission is mobilizing the power of community and the arts to disrupt the cycle of addiction," Travis said, summarizing the organization’s approach to prevention and recovery.
The court expressed verbal appreciation and encouraged Yes Arts to continue annual reporting to the court as it pursues sustainable funding.
