Morris Arts has received a grant in the amount of $15,000 from Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. The donation made through The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, will be used to fund Making Art in Public Spaces (M.A.P.S.) an Arts in Health initiative in partnership with Life Center Stage.
M.A.P.S. offers non-clinical, low barrier opportunities for community members to experience the health-related benefits of the arts. This includes a variety of events throughout the year like creative socials, art exhibitions, workshops, and performances. The program, which began in 2025 with the support of The Horizon Foundation, reaches diverse populations including those affected by mental health challenges and substance misuse. The arts can serve as a powerful antidote to these health concerns. Arts experiences can help participants increase serotonin levels, foster new ways of thinking, and imagine a more hopeful future.
“We are delighted to receive support from The Horizon Foundation for the second year in a row,” said Morris Arts’ Executive Director, Patsy Clew. “In 2025, open mics, youth open mic trainings, and community sing-alongs made a deep impact on the mental health of participants from all over Morris County. We’re excited to see these programs continue in 2026, thanks to The Horizon Foundation.”
“Horizon is pleased to support efforts that use the arts to strengthen community well‑being,” said Jonathan R. Pearson, Executive Director of The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. “The Making Art in Public Spaces project reflects Horizon’s commitment to helping our members—and all the communities we serve—achieve their best health by using the arts to encourage healthy behaviors and make important health information more engaging and accessible.”
About The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey’s philanthropic arm, The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, is focused on making New Jersey healthier by supporting nonprofit organizations that expand access to health care, remove barriers to good health and increase opportunities for everyone to achieve their best health, no matter who they are or where they live. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, please visit HorizonBlue.com/Foundation.
About Morris Arts
Founded in 1973, Morris Arts has been building community through the arts for over 50 years. As the designated arts council for Morris County, Morris Arts works to provide meaningful artistic experiences for all county residents regardless of age, means, or background. The nonprofit facilitates high-quality arts education programs for students, community arts events, and arts in health programs that improve participants’ well-being. Additionally, Morris Arts advocates for the arts and regrants state funds to local arts organizations, expanding access to arts experiences throughout Morris County.
About Life Center Stage
Life Center Stage (LCS) builds strong communities where everyone can experience the transformative power of the arts and enhances the health of all people through innovative arts-based programs. Their initiatives tackle critical societal issues, including loneliness, substance use disorders, and the urgent need for mental health support. LCS builds resilient communities, working together to provide the transformative power of the arts and creative-wellness experiences that enhance and enrich the quality of life for everyone.