Vibrant Emotional Health, a leading non-profit dedicated to mental health, has acquired Stars of HOPE (SOH), a program from the New York Says Thank You Foundation. This acquisition strengthens Vibrant’s mission by integrating SOH’s evidence-based disaster response therapeutic arts program, which supports survivors through art and healing sessions. Since 2007, SOH has played a pivotal role in helping communities recover from tragedy by promoting peer-to-peer support, compassion, and kindness through art, using creativity and kindness to foster healing.

Through this acquisition, Vibrant plans to expand SOH by increasing volunteer engagement with hospitals, schools, and corporations. This expansion will provide hope and healing to diverse communities affected by disaster and tragedy, encouraging collective action and empathy. 

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey at Vibrant as we proudly welcome Stars of HOPE into our family. This acquisition ignites our passion for spreading hope and amplifies our commitment to mental health and emotional well-being. At Vibrant, we empower communities in need, delivering support exactly when, where, and how it’s needed most. Together, we shine brighter, illuminating paths of healing and resilience for all,” said Brenda Tong, MSW, Chief Program Officer of Vibrant Emotional Health.

According to a study by Florida State University, SOH has had a significant positive impact on those who experience it, with 95% of participants feeling “grateful” and 93% feeling “less alone.” The program’s stars have become symbols of unity and healing, with thousands being created and distributed annually to communities in need.

To learn more about Stars of HOPE, visit www.vibrant.org/starsofhope.

Read Vibrant’s press release about this remarkable program here.