When Natalie Drake learned that MiraVista Behavioral Health Center wanted to create a mural recognizing the dedication of staff, she was happy to donate her time and skills.
The resident of the Thorndike Village of Palmer calls painting her “personal passion,” visible in its decorative and commercial forms on the website dabsterduck.com and adds that she enjoys “giving my time to those who are trying to make positive changes in our community.”
The result is a series of trees along a long, well-traveled hallway to which will be added leaves – actually the handprints of employees as they mark their first year at MiraVista Behavioral Health Center that provides inpatient care to adults and adolescents and a range of outpatient substance use recovery services.
“I’ve always loved trees, especially oak trees, they support us in so many ways and ask for so little in return,” said Drake whose daughter Carley contributed her painting skills as well. “Trees are symbols of life, balance, harmony and the interconnectedness of everyone and everything. I even have a tree of life tattoo.”
Kimberley Lee, MiraVista Chief of Creative Strategy and Development, said the mural of trees “beautifully reflects” the concept behind its creation to recognize the “helping hands of employees.”
“The handprints of employees celebrating their first anniversary will be added as leaves to celebrate their service,” Lee said. “The leaves celebrate as well that these hands directly contribute to the health and wellness of individuals in our care whether that is substance use or mental health.”
Lee noted that the mural took a day to complete.
“We are very grateful to Natalie and Carley for their time and talent,” Lee said. “Staff enjoyed watching the mural’s creation and it adds a very positive and promising vibe to a well-traveled space on our first floor.”
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MiraVista Behavioral Health Center opened in April of 2021 in Holyoke, Mass. MiraVista offers inpatient psychiatric care services for both adults and adolescents, as well as an array of outpatient addiction treatment programs.
MiraVista cares for thousands of individuals from across New England and is a leading provider of mental health and addiction treatment services, dedicated to empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. With a commitment to excellence and compassion, MiraVista offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based treatment programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Through personalized care and support, MiraVista inspires hope and healing, helping individuals reclaim their lives and embrace a brighter future.