Art That Holds Space. Connection That Heals.
We are The Holding Frames: a new healing arts initiative born from one simple belief: art holds space, and connection heals.
Founded by Joshua Garcia and Cait Leavey, both survivors and community builders, The Holding Frames was created to bring hope and solidarity to people impacted by tragedy. At every activation, participants paint a frame and write a message of care. One frame becomes part of a collective art piece, and another is gifted forward — carrying a connection from one community to another.
We’ve already seen this in action: children, first responders, and survivors painting side by side, creating frames filled with color, compassion, and hope. Now, with your help, we’re ready to officially launch as a nonprofit and bring this work to communities across the country.
Our Goal: $20,000
Your donation will help us:
- $5,500 — Launch the Nonprofit: Covers 501(c)(3) filing, insurance, accountant setup, and the website — making The Holding Frames official.
- $10,000 — First Project Funded: Brings Holding Frames to one impacted community with art supplies, shipping, and volunteer support.
- $15,000 — Expand to 2 More Communities: Funds two additional activations, reaching hundreds of people with frames of hope.
- $20,000 — Full Launch Year: Secures nonprofit status and seeds a year of growth — 3+ activations, national reach, and a foundation for scaling.
What Your Gift Makes Possible
- $25 → Provides paints & brushes for one community table.
- $50 → Sponsors 10 frames with messages of care.
- $100 → Covers a kit for a classroom or support group.
- $250 → Funds shipping of frames to a community in need.
- $500 → Supports one complete community activation.
- $1,000+ → Helps sponsor a Founding Frame Project — carrying hope to an entire community.
Why Now
After tragedy, communities often feel isolated and unseen. The Holding Frames offers a way to listen to the whispers — the quiet voices of survivors, families, and neighbors — and to create something lasting together. We know the power of art to heal because we’ve lived it.
This campaign will give us the foundation to:
- Become an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit
- Deliver our first 3+ activations
- Build a volunteer network and expand nationally
With your support, we can frame a future filled with connection, compassion, and hope.
Co-organizers (2)
Joshua Garcia
Organizer
Colorado Springs, CO
Cait Leavey
Co-organizer