Our Story- Mom
As a family, we made our first art kit donation to a local women's shelter during Christmas 2024.
Growing up, there were times when my mom relied on welfare programs, so it was important to me that my daughter understood the value of empathy, generosity, and caring for children in our community. Since she loved drawing, we invited a few friends to help assemble two art baskets filled with watercolors, paints, brushes, markers, sketchbooks, and drawing books. We donated them to a nearby women's shelter where women and children escaping domestic violence could find safety.
The following Christmas, we returned with more art baskets and were invited to tour the shelter. As we walked through the children's room, we couldn't take our eyes off the beautiful artwork displayed on the walls.I found myself wondering about the children who had created each piece, their stories, and where they were now. Our hearts were deeply moved.
During our visit, we learned that the shelter had an ongoing need for art supplies. Because these materials are used every day, donations are always needed. We were reminded that every child deserves the opportunity to create, imagine, and simply be a kid.
Kids need caring adults to show what is possible, that there is hope.
That experience left us asking, "How can we bring together our family, friends, and community to make an even greater impact?"
My daughter was full of ideas. Our conversations continued on the drive to school, over dinner, and during walks to the park as we dreamed about what Hart for Art could become. Step by step, those ideas grew into a vision. Two years later, here we are.
As we begin this next chapter, I lean on my faith in Jesus, trusting that He renews our strength to serve (Isaiah 40:31).
For all the parent and parent figures who want to instill generosity and service to their child, to all the kids that want to make a difference in the world, to my mom who has taught me to choose courage and love, my daughter and husband who have been my source of inspiration and light, for the child that needs encouragement and hope, and for God who has first loved me as his daughter- this Hart is for you.
Join our journey to discover what is possible with hope, faith and love.
Soo Jin Choi
Co-Founder of Hart for Art
Our Story- Daughter
As a toddler I have sat at the table drawing for hours and then hanging my picture on the fridge and feeling proud of what I accomplished. As I grew older, art has helped me in a deeper way.
In the beginning of fourth grade I was still trying to find my place. Around this time I joined an art studio which helped me express my emotions on paper, sketching with delicate lines and strokes. I would come home from school and sit down to sketch and I would feel better after expressing my emotions on paper.
I strongly believe that art is meant to be for everyone regardless of age or ability. Art can be anything from globs of paint to a masterpiece made from an artist.
That's when I got an idea along with my mom to begin helping other children who may be in difficult situations, donating art baskets to a women and children's shelter. The first time we bought the supplies. The second time we tried to get donations from stories for our baskets, and we were told that stores don't donate to individuals but more to nonprofits and organizations. That gave us even more ideas. Here we are two years later we finally were able to launch Hart for Art!
I have a blessed life. I try to imagine what it would be like if I couldn't go school or see my friends, go shopping, go to the pool, or maybe not knowing where my mom and dad are, not knowing where I will live.
When children can’t be children and be themselves, they might feel trapped or feel like nobody cares for them. We want to show them that there are people who are willing to help and show love.
Please partner with us to make our community a better place. Thank you!
Irene Choi
Honorary Co-Founder of Hart for Art
Our Values
H – Hope for a brighter future/ Isaiah 40:31
A – Advocacy & access to creative tools and opportunities/ Psalm 68:5
R – Relationships are at the core of belonging through caring connections & welcoming spaces/ Psalm 34:18
T – Transformation through the love of Christ through our words and actions /Romans 12:2
S – Service with empathy and generosity/James 2:16
“We want to show them that there are people who are willing to help and show love.”
— Irene, Co-Founder of Hart for Art—
“Kids need caring adults to show them what is possible, that there is hope.”
Soojin Choi, Co-Founder of Hart for Art
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