Giving Circle FAQ

⭐ What is IDHA?

The Institute for the Development of Human Arts (IDHA) is a transformative mental health training institute. We are mental health workers, clinicians, psychiatrists, current and prior users of mental health services, advocates, artists, and survivors of trauma and adversity, who are interested in exploring the link between personal and societal transformation. You can learn more about our history and how we define transformative mental health here.

⭐ Why is IDHA starting a giving circle? Why now?

As IDHA grows, one of our biggest goals is to become more grassroots and community funded. Not only does this diversification of funding aid sustainability, it is more aligned with our wider anti-oppression strategy. This goal is articulated at a time of an uncertain financial future for IDHA; without community support, we will have no choice but to scale back our offerings in the year to come.

⭐ What kind of long-term impact will my donation have?

By becoming a monthly supporter of our work, you will make a difference in the lives of numerous peers, students, artists, and survivors who otherwise would not be able to access our offerings. In the words of a recent scholarship recipient: “Receiving a scholarship to attend the spring training series was the community care I needed. It allowed access to content and participants that deeply nourished my mind, filled my heart, and resonated with my soul. I feel more connected to and at ease with myself, and therefore, more comfortable creating a care plan that aligns with more fitting supports.” As another recipient said, “These scholarships are necessary and valuable, and I look forward to the day I can support IDHA in offering scholarships to people who need the little bit of help that IDHA was able to offer to me.” Moreover, you will sustain IDHA as an organization, expanding the impact we have cultivated over the last six years. Each year, IDHA reaches thousands of people with our groundbreaking work. Our trainings and events have shifted the hearts and minds of countless professionals and advocates, shaped the course of career paths and treatment plans, and contributed to paradigm shifts in how we talk about and practice "care."

⭐ Are there any benefits or “perks” associated with this giving circle?

With immense appreciation for the generosity of our donors, joining IDHA’s giving circle is accompanied by the following benefits:

• Detailed updates on IDHA’s work and future plans from our staff, including stories from those who have directly benefited from your contribution
• Free IDHA swag! (e.g. t-shirts, tote bags)
• Access to an annual exclusive talk with an “expert” (by experience or training) in the field

⭐ This initiative seems meaningful, but I’m not sure it’s right for me at this time. Are there other ways I can get involved in IDHA?

Definitely! First and foremost, we invite you to join our community as a member. This means that you share our vision of transformative mental health, and align with our organizational principles and values. Membership also helps sustain IDHA as an organization, and comes with a series of exciting perks. You can explore other ways to get involved here.