Community group creates uplifting murals for youths

The community group Art Attack Windsor unveiled an “inspiring” set of new murals Thursday at the Windsor Residence for Young Men.

“These murals illustrate exactly the generosity and community spirit that makes the work of WRYM both possible and successful,” said Greg Goulin, executive director of the residence. “I want to thank the artist, David Creed, for his fine inspiration, and Jill Thompson, founder of Art Attack Windsor, for showing us the added value that art brings to our work and our community.”

Art Attack Windsor has spent the last year working with artists, local organizations and business owners to create several murals that “brighten the downtown and inspire the community” by enhancing spaces throughout the city.

The Windsor Residence for Young Men was one of those spaces. The facility helps men between the ages of 16 and 20 overcome homelessness and build productive lives. It receives some government funding but operates mostly from “sweat equity:” donated materials and funding from local businesses and citizens.

The residence offers a counselling centre, computer room, classroom and recreational areas.

Staff members also teach basic life skills including a healthy lifestyle, budgeting, social responsibility, a work ethic and how to share in community resources. They help residents access health, social, psychological, educational and career support.

“We model a supportive functional family,” said Goulin. “It’s often the only family our guys have ever known.”

Anyone interested in supporting The Windsor Residence for Young Men can go to www.wrym.ca or call 226-221-8464.