Building Bonds Through Art

Recently, Piece by Piece Artistic Director Dawn Mendelson, alongside instructor Betty Rosen and artists June C. and Vickie M., led a team-building workshop for Connections for Children (CFC). The event, attended by 50 enthusiastic CFC team members, was a blend of creativity, community, and wellness.

The workshop centered around creating individual mosaic shapes and a large mosaic of the CFC logo, which will be assembled into a stunning piece of wall art for the CFC offices. This collective art project symbolizes the unity and collaborative spirit of the CFC team, reflecting their dedication to supporting children and families in their community.

Connections For Children Team working on mosaics


Dawn Mendelson emphasized several crucial themes as she led the workshop, using this artistic endeavor as a professional development opportunity. The team explored the experience of community trauma and the markers of trauma within a community, recognizing how such experiences affect individuals and the collective. Art was presented as a powerful tool for healing, allowing participants to express and process their experiences, finding solace and connection through their artistic creations.

This wellness activity not only provided a space for CFC staff to learn about the healing power of art but also allowed them to build bonds with their teammates. By engaging in the creative process together, team members strengthened their connections and fostered a supportive environment.

Piece by Piece team leading the Connections For Children team in creating mosaics.



As a token of appreciation, CFC provided each team member with a Piece by Piecekeepsake—a mosaic heart or votive. These will serve as reminders of the day's meaningful experiences and the importance of community and creativity in healing and growth.

The Piece by Piece team is proud to have facilitated this enriching experience for Connections for Children. The resulting mosaic wall art will not only beautify the CFC offices but also stand as a testament to the strength, resilience, and unity of their team. If you are interested in having Piece by Piece provide a team building workshop for your business or organization please reach out to Marieme. 

Betty ROsen, Vicki, June and Dawn Mendelson
About Piece by Piece

Piece by Piece is dedicated to fostering community, healing, and creativity through art. Piece by Piece’s programs provide opportunities for individuals to express themselves, connect with others, and find healing through the transformative power of art. 

About Connections for Children
Connections for Children is a non-profit Child Care Resource and Referral agency serving child care providers, educators, and parents in West Los Angeles and South Bay communities. For over 40 years, they have been a strong voice supporting quality child care and early education, linking children's advocates, service providers, and parents. Their services include workshops for parents, child care subsidy programs, and professional development for providers enriching the experiences of thousands of children and their families.
Sign up for our newsletter

0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Read More Stories

  • Visiting Artist Series: Kelley Knickerbocker

    Visiting Artist Series: Kelley Knickerbocker

    Seattle Mosaic Artist Kelley Knickerbocker visited Piece by Piece in November to teach a special workshop that inspired both creativity and technical skills. With a challenge to use only one material to make an entire piece, participant artists rose to the occasion and had a great time finding new ways to see a single material.
  • 8 Things You Should Know About Piece by Piece

    8 Things You Should Know About Piece by Piece

    By Sophie Alpert, Founder of Piece by Piece

    As the founder of Piece by Piece, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformative power of art and community firsthand. Over the years, this organization has grown into a vibrant force for change, offering individuals not only creative opportunities but also hope and healing.
  • Celebrating Dawn Mendelson: 18 Years of Leadership, Creativity, and Community at Piece by Piece

    Celebrating Dawn Mendelson: 18 Years of Leadership, Creativity, and Community at Piece by Piece

    For nearly two decades, Dawn Mendelson has been the heart and soul of Piece by Piece, serving as Program and Artistic Director with dedication, creativity, and compassion. Over the past 18 years, Dawn has transformed Piece by Piece into a vibrant community where art is not only a tool for healing but also a means of connection and empowerment for individuals rebuilding their lives.