The Second Step Players is a program of Artreach, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit mental health and arts agency. Artreach uses creativity as healing, supporting recovery for adults who have psychiatric diagnoses. We believe the creative arts, alternative wellness, and personal growth opportunities enhance the quality of our members’ lives. Our members develop resiliency and stress hardiness, and discover new pathways for achieving sustainable recovery. Artreach, Inc. deeply believes that Creativity Heals.
Artreach’s Applied Theater Troupe, The Second Step Players, shares the message that recovery happens, and creativity heals. Since 1985, the Second Step Players have created and performed original sketch comedy about mental health issues. The Players’ touring performances reach audiences from all walks of life; providers of mental health services, students in nursing and psychology programs, family members, and other people who have experienced psychiatric issues.
The Second Step Players is a program of Artreach, Inc., a nonprofit mental health organization employing the arts, recreation and wellness activities to aid in the recovery and community integration of low-income adults with chronic mental illnesses. Artreach’s goals are to:
- Through artistic, cultural, recreational and wellness activities, encourage members to acquire and actively implement into their lives socialization and stress reduction skills necessary to build self confidence and increase the chance of sustaining recovery.
- Challenge the myths and misconceptions that stigmatize people with mental illnesses so that members can successfully integrate into the community.
- Expand the community based recreational opportunities available to people who have persistent mental illnesses to reduce their sense of isolation.