Beginnings

DrawBridge was founded in 1989 by art therapist Gloria Simoneaux, who developed a highly effective method of using the creative arts to help young people work through the complex emotions associated with homelessness and family challenges.

The first two DrawBridge art groups were offered at Hamilton Family Center and at Marin Housing Center’s emergency shelters. During the first years of program development, those involved saw the transformational effect art can have on the lives of young people and families.

In December 2007, after serving for 17 years as Executive Director, Gloria Simoneaux retired from her role at DrawBridge to found the international organization, Harambee Arts: Let’s Pull Together.

DrawBridge Today

Since those early days, DrawBridge programs have spread to diverse communities and annually host more than 1000 art groups in seven San Francisco Bay Area counties, including Marin, San Francisco, Alameda, Sonoma, Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz.

DrawBridge’s programs are more in demand than ever. Our skilled staff and facilitators, passionate volunteers, and active Board of Directors are dedicated to expanding its arts program and serving an even greater number of families in our communities.