People First join art students to spread the love

On Monday, People First of Kalispell member Joe Bennett dipped a paintbrush into blue watercolor and painted against a block of red onto wet paper creating a diffused and striking effect.

“The watercolor will spread out and make a gradient of color,” Flathead High School Art Club member and sophomore Hannah Mriss said about the wet-on-wet technique.

The pair were part of a larger group making Valentines to deliver to local seniors today. People First is an organization for adults with developmental or cognitive disabilities sponsored by the Special Friends Advocacy.

It was the first collaboration between the two groups, according to Art Club advisor and teacher Sara Nelson.

In addition to sharing an interest in art and going on field trips, community service is part of the Art Club, Nelson said. The club has done other community service projects, such as face painting for events to benefit different nonprofits. The club puts their artistic skills to work when it comes to high school events such as prom or end-of-year senior party.

“We want the students to be out there sharing their expertise,” Nelson said. “It’s also a great opportunity for students to get to know their community.”

Community service is also an interest of People First along with fun field trips. Members participated in “Rake Up the Flathead,” and other activities sponsored by United Way.

Sitting across from Bennett, People First member Jeremy Minnehan chose to paint a beach scene for his Valentine’s Day card in hopes to send warm thoughts to seniors during such a cold winter.

“It’s a beach guy and a sun,” Minnehan said before starting a second card. “We’re going to hand them out to senior citizens at Heritage Place, it’s going to be nice.”

People First member Kimberly Brown was busy layering pink, purple and red heart-shaped cutouts on her Valentine. The project was up her alley.

“I’m a huge fan of art,” Brown said noting that her favorite thing is to draw anime.

Special Friends Advocacy board chairman Kim Davis said People First helps provide structured activities and assistance to adults, many of who live independently.

“We’re hoping to do more activities like this,” Davis said.

For more information on People First and Special Friends Advocacy visit specialfriendskalispell.org.