The specific goals of the Foundation are informed by Dr. Craig Rennebohm’s outreach and engagement model of providing companionship to the homeless and mentally ill. This approach acknowledges that the social isolation experienced by the homeless acts to exacerbate many of their situational ills such as unmanaged medical conditions, run-ins with law enforcement agencies, and inability to make use of the social services available to them. Outreach and engagement training recruits lay people (that is, not trained mental health professionals or social workers) to establish stable supportive relationships with homeless individuals. These companionship relationships provide practical assistance as well as friendship to marginalized individuals. The Foundation will support the work Dr. Rennebohm’s described in his book “Souls in the Hands of a Tender God”, by delivering outreach and engagement training to defined target groups.
The Foundation also seeks to commemorate John’s artistic talents by providing resourced studio space where homeless individuals may create art and music. Art therapy programs nationwide have been shown to improve the quality of life of homeless youth and adults. Creating art not only provides an avenue of emotional expression, but also a sense of purpose to individuals who are often struggling with depression and poor self-image. The Foundation intends that the arts program will also provide an opportunity for homeless people to tell their personal stories in their own choice of medium and in their own voice.
The Foundation is incorporated in Washington state, and 501(c)3 status is currently being sought.
The John Leonard Adams Foundation’s mission is to support the creative work of homeless artists. This is accomplished by providing studio space, supplies, mentoring, and nutritional support to eligible individuals.
The John Leonard Adams Foundation will encourage the creation of compassionate communities by promoting awareness of the unique gifts of marginalized individuals. Through education of community members and fostering companionship relationships, the Foundation intends that marginalized individuals will experience less stigmatization, and that community members will experience less fear and separation from their fellow human beings.