Help Oya Arts Create a Place to Belong for Kids, Young People, and Families in Foster Care and Adoption

Imagine being in a room full of people who just get it. Where you can simply be yourself.

I’m Karen Caldwell, founder of Oya Arts, a Minneapolis creative studio built around art, storytelling, and bringing people together.

I was adopted, and my experience was a positive one. But that doesn’t mean I’ve never had questions about identity, belonging, or where I fit in. Growing up, I learned that being loved and wondering where you come from aren’t mutually exclusive.

There’s something special about spending time with people who share an experience that’s part of your own story. There’s already an understanding. That’s true for kids and young people, and just as true for the families who love them.

That’s what inspired something close to my heart.

A Place to Create, Connect, and Just Be Yourself

I’m launching free, regular creative sessions for children and young people in foster care or who have been adopted, along with their foster and adoptive families.

Sometimes we’ll explore identity, belonging, and our own stories through art. Other times we’ll simply paint, laugh, and make a mess together. Not every moment needs a deeper meaning. Sometimes the joy of creating alongside other people is enough.

There’s no pressure to share anything personal. Just the freedom to explore, make friends, and be yourself.

This Isn’t a One-Time Event. It’s a Commitment.

I want these sessions to become something people can look forward to and return to, where friendships grow and creativity is encouraged. That’s why I’m building them into the foundation of Oya Arts: every workshop, creative session, mystery night, and private event helps support these free sessions. I’m also working alongside local organizations that support children and families connected to foster care and adoption.

I’m going to build this program. Your support will help make it last.

Where Your Gift Goes

Any amount helps us keep welcoming families back again and again, so friendships can grow and this becomes a lasting part of Oya Arts.

Will You Help Me Keep a Place at the Table?

You don’t have to give a lot to make a difference. Whether it’s $10, $25, $50, or whatever feels right, your gift creates more moments of connection, creativity, and joy.

Your support helps create a little corner of the world where kids, young people, and families can simply belong.

Please donate if you can, and share this with someone who believes every child and every family deserves to feel welcome. You can also help by joining us at an Oya Arts workshop or event, or reaching out about volunteering. Every one of those supports these sessions too.

Thank you for helping me build something that lasts.

With love and gratitude,

Karen Caldwell

Founder, Oya Arts