A Window Between Worlds

Founded in 1991 by artist and activist Cathy Salser, A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) views art as a catalyst to release trauma, build resilience, and ignite social change. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities impacted by violence and trauma through a transformative healing arts program.

We have built an extensive network of advocates, teachers, social workers, case managers, therapists, community organizers, and other people dedicated to healing and wellness through our trauma-informed experiential trainings. These direct service providers serve many communities and address a multitude of life experiences such as domestic/sexual violence; grief and loss; child abuse and neglect; homelessness; substance abuse and more.

Our unique model goes beyond trainings, providing ongoing access to an expanding curriculum of over 600 strengths-based art workshops, free professional development opportunities, peer-to-peer groups, and individualized consultations with AWBW staff. This continued support builds the capacity of our program partners, strengthening their ability to better assist those they serve.

In our 30 year history, more than 400,000 adults and children have participated in Windows art workshops. In 2021 alone, with the support of nearly 800 trained Windows Facilitators, over 60,000 individuals throughout 39 states and 6 countries were invited to take a window of time to notice their thoughts, needs, and feelings and create a tangible reminder of their resilience.

We believe that when individuals are offered these opportunities to create art in a safe community they can be heard and respected — replacing violence and shame with safety and hope.