In 1990, when Hilda Brown was in her early 50’s she lost her brown umbrella and found The Umbrella Project, a global 501©3 children’s art project. See www.umbrellaproject.org.
Children throughout the world have gained self-esteem and learned about social action by simply painting with non-toxic fabric markers on over-sized white nylon umbrellas.
The Umbrella Project is dedicated to teaching children that they can make a difference in their community through creativity. For example,in Israel, Jewish and Arab (Christian and Moslem) children,, were brought together in small groups of four or five to paint for peace. The Umbrella Project embraces all children, well or challenged, rich or poor, every child can make a mark and be a catalyst for change.
Winner of a Presidents Points of Light Award, The Umbrella Project has been recognized nationally and now Internationally. Hilda has been invited to present the project at The World Congress on Psychology and Spirituality in New Delhi, India January 2008.
As a further benefit to the children of the world, the hand-painted one-of-a-kind umbrellas are given for donation and the monies received are gifted back to the participating comminity. Children for children, The Umbrella Project just completed a major endeavor with Katrina survivors in Louisiana and Mississippi. Funds raised for the student’s umbrellas contributed to building a High School Sanctuary in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana and to benefit a Fire Department in Kiln, Mississippi.
As the umbrella is the universal symbol of protection, for 18 years Hilda has assisted children to open their hearts as well as their umbrellas to help other children in need.
Since 1996, Hilda has moved to Arizona to house the project in her garage and at 71 continues to use the common language of art as a healing tool on the planet.