Our mission is to improve the lives of children affected by cancer by empowering them to find their inner artist, through arts education and tuition. Our army of volunteer art educators – teachers, artists, writers, designers, musicians and many more – help children find their artistic passion, then support and coach them on a journey to becoming an artist in their chosen field. A Free Bird also utilizes professional art therapists to help children with behavioral problems engage with our programs. Arts education has been shown to bring profound physical and mental benefits to the children we support and their families. Engaging with the arts gives them inspiration to fight their disease, provides a vital outlet for self-expression, and brings joy and hope to their lives.Every day, 43 children are diagnosed with cancer in the United States. Our vision is to reach every child affected by cancer and provide them with arts education to inspire their inner artist. We will help them find an art form they are passionate about and teach them new skills. Our goal is that this helps them find inspiration to fight their disease, and provides a creative outlet that brings them joy, hope and pride. We will support them through every stage of their journey, instilling a love for the arts that will support their physical progress and their emotional wellbeing – now and well into their future.