Paint, Palettes, and
Pinot Night at the Sketchbook Studio in Patchogue provided an artistic
experience for members of the community and local educators to learn something
new, have fun, and fundraise for SkillsUSA, an organization that partners
students, teachers, and industry to work together to ensure America has a
skilled workforce.
Meg Healy, program director, teaching artist, and owner of
Sketchbook Studio, offered her studio for a fundraiser as an alternate way of
raising money. In addition to owning Sketchbook Studio, Ms. Healy is a special education
aide at Eastern Suffolk BOCES (ESBOCES) in the Horticulture Program at Islip
Career Center. The center serves students with disabilities from ESBOCES
component school districts. The students learn technical and academic skills
that prepare them for future careers and employment. SkillsUSA encourages all
individuals to be involved and embraces inclusion and diversity. The
organization offers student competitions at the regional, state, and national
level.
“The studio is a venue that provides social interaction and
the relaxed atmosphere nurtures artistic expression.” Her website offering Paint, Palettes & Pinot, a
fundraiser geared toward ESBOCES staff, drew the attention of community
members.
‘No painting
experience necessary’ says Ms. Healy. “I supply the materials, acrylic paint,
canvas, brushes, and a smock. Step by step instruction is provided so each
person can create their own unique piece of art.”
The programs at the studio are inclusive on many levels.
Inclusive in the sense that everyone at every level of artistic ability is
welcome to attend. More importantly, Healy is an approved provider and
participates in the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD),
Consolidated Supports and Services (CSS) model. She specializes in working with
children and adults with unique challenges, especially those students with
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Marge Coffey, a community member from East Patchogue who
attended, said, “It was a perfect venue. Everything was included; we just
brought our own refreshments.” Ms. Coffey is the executive director/owner of
South Shore Home Health Services in Oakdale. “I don’t consider myself an
artist,” said Coffey, “but I really enjoyed the evening. I met some new people,
the event was for a good cause, and I came away with a painting that I really
am proud of.”
Donations raised at the Paint,
Palettes & Pinot fundraising event covered the cost of SkillsUSA jackets for several students at Islip Career
Center.