Q: What is North Carolina Arts for Health?

A: North Carolina Arts for Health (NCAH) is the country’s first and only statewide organization whose mission is to actively promote and advocate for the integration of arts and humanities into the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

Q: How old is NCAH?

A: The idea for NCAH emerged out of discussions held during the 1996 Society for the Arts in Healthcare’s annual conference. In 2000, the N.C. Arts Council awarded a grant to establish the organization. In 2001, a focus group convened to plan for the first training institute which was held in 2002.

Q: Who are your members?

A: Our members are artists, arts-in-healthcare workers, expressive arts therapists, health professionals, hospital architects, administrators, arts and disabilities workers and those with an interest in this burgeoning field.

Q: Where are your members from?

A: NCAH draws its members and board of directors from the mountains to the coast.

Q: Do you offer Training?

A: Yes. We continue to offer Training Institutes across the state.

Q: Do I have to be a member to attend a Training Institute?

A: No. But we encourage you to join NCAH to receive benefits such as a reduced rate for institutes, consulting, and networking.

Q: Can I get CEUs for attending a Training Institute?

A: Yes. NCAH works in conjunction with local AHEC organizations to make sure continuing education units are available for participants who attend our Training Institutes.

Q: Do you provide grants?

A: We’re not able to provide grants at this time, though we look to a future when that will be possible. One place to look for granting opportunities is www.thesah.org.

Q: Do I have to be a health care provider to benefit from NCAH?

A: No. You only need to have an interest in the field of arts-in-health-care.

Q: What degree do I need?

A: No degree is required to be a part of NCAH. Our members have a variety of educational backgrounds and experience. Our common thread is our work or interest in expressive therapies, arts, humanities, social work, psychology, medicine, environmental architecture, education, art or business.

Q: How do I join NCAH?

A: It’s easy. Just complete a membership application at www.ncartsforhealth.org/memberhip. You can pay by check. You can also call us for an application at 919 805-4122.

Q: How much does a membership cost?

A: Individual memberships are $25/year and $50/year for organizations, which entitles 3 members from your organization to attend Training Institutes at the discounted rate.

Q: How is NCAH funded?

A: NCAH is a 501C3 nonprofit organization funded primarily through grants and contributions. Our funders include The North Carolina Arts Council, the Mary Duke Biddle Foundation, various corporations and private funders.

Q: Where is NCAH located?

A: While our office is virtual, we can be reached at 919 805 4122 or through our website.

Q: How do I contact you?

A: Our mailing address is PO Box 52713, Durham, NC 27717 and our phone number is 919-805-4122. We can also be reached at www.ncartsforhealth.org.

Q: Where do you meet?

A: We meet at different locations throughout the state.

Q: Where does one practice arts in health?

A: Just about anywhere. Medical settings (hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices), developmental disability settings (group homes, centers), schools, studios, waiting rooms, offices, prisons and anywhere you see the need.

Q: How do I volunteer my services or time to NCAH?

A: We welcome volunteers! NCAH is driven by a volunteer board of directors and we welcome your participation. Please send us an email via our website (www.ncartsforhealth.org) or call us (919-805-4122).

Q: How do I make a financial contribution?

A: NCAH is a nonprofit organization funded through grants and contributions so your contribution would be very appreciated! You can write a check to NCAH and mail it to PO Box 52713, Durham, NC 27717.

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