Tallahassee, Florida (WCTV) – A small Railroad Square company has a big impact thanks to art.
Obsessions gifts, owned by Betty Proctor, have become a safe space for people with autism and mental health problems.
“As they hit the door to leave, they say to themselves:” Oh my God, I feel so relaxed “, said Proctor.
His daughter, Nijah, received a diagnosis of autism at the age of 5. What started as a personal trip to support Nijah has become a wider mission by creativity.
“Everyone has an obsession,” said Proctor. “We are just trying to transform this obsession into something productive.”
Proctor said that she had seen how art could be a form of expression and communication. This led him to start offering art sessions to the community.
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For autistic people, the entrepreneur thinks that the studio has become a place of connection.
“They can be non -verbal or not very verbal,” said Proctor. “But they look, see the works of art of another person and say:” Oh wow, it’s really nice. “Even if it is only visual contact, it is communication.”
In 2020, Proctor launched MPAC, motivating people through arts and crafts, a workforce development program for young autistic adults. The program offers participants, practical experience helping to organize events, direct painting and develop professional skills.
“I just want people to get opportunities, and also be able to see that they can really do it,” she said.
Now Proctor and his daughter make obsessive gifts together.
“I feel really relaxed when I do art,” said Nijah. “It brings out stress and anxiety.”
Proctor also hosts parents support groups. The next virtual session is set for June 26.
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