My name is Paul Mez I am an artist and special education assistant behavioral support staff working at a local school here in Pittsburgh. I’ve created art for more than 20 years and have worked in childhood education for more than 4 years. Outside of school I travel independently as a live painter and art vendor around the country. My trusty vehicle is the beating heart of my travels and provides me the ability to showcase my work around the U.S. and more recently Canada. Sadly my beloved minivan that has filled me with so much joy needs to be laid to rest and junked leaving me scrambling to invest in a new vehicle. I am asking friends, family and community for support at this moment as I’m currently living paycheck to paycheck via my day job working at a school with special needs students. My art sales have also seen a downturn this year which is part of the reason why I’m asking for support. Asking for help can be a vulnerable and humbling experience but it would truly help me arrive at my next chapter.