Devereux Florida adolescents among winners of Orlando Magic’s Black History Month art contest

Two Devereux Florida adolescents, Mariah (pictured left) and Marcella (pictured right), were recently named among the four winners of the Orlando Magic’s Black History Month art contest.

Mariah submitted a drawing (pictured above) titled, “Bill of Civil Rights,” that showed a person’s journey from Africa to enslavement to receiving rights as an American citizen. Marcella submitted a video of an interpretive dance titled, “Stand Up.”

During halftime of a recent Orlando Magic basketball game, two Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida adolescents were recognized in front of a crowd of thousands for their creative talents and artistic expression. Mariah and Marcella were named among the four winners of the Orlando Magic’s Black History Month art contest.

A dozen adolescents from Devereux Florida programs participated in the contest. Individuals submitted various types of artwork, including drawings, paintings and handmade jewelry, as well as videos of performance art. Participants were asked to describe or depict the impact black history and culture has had on them.

Mariah submitted a drawing titled, “Bill of Civil Rights,” that showed a person’s journey from Africa to enslavement to receiving rights as an American citizen. Marcella submitted a video of an interpretive dance titled, “Stand Up.” View a video of Marcella’s performance art.

“We want to thank the Orlando Magic for holding this art contest in honor of Black History Month, and we want to congratulate Mariah, Marcella and all of our youth who participated,” said Devereux Florida Director of External Affairs Lindsey Phillips. “The one-of-a-kind works celebrating black history and culture submitted by these talented young artists were simply awe-inspiring.”

A memorable experience for all

In addition to being recognized during an Orlando Magic game, Mariah and Marcella received personalized jerseys and snapped photos with former Magic player Bo Outlaw.

But every Devereux Florida youth who participated in the contest walked away a winner. The center’s external affairs department and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) committee teamed up with the Magic to offer all those who entered a certificate of participation; a printed booklet of all of the creative works submitted to the contest; an Orlando Magic-themed duffle bag; and two tickets to a Magic home game.

“We could not be more proud of our kids for having the strength and courage to express themselves through art – they put a great deal of time and thought into their pieces,” noted Phillips. “Our friends at the Orlando Magic offered their support, and provided an inclusive opportunity for any and all of our youth to participate. We know our kids will be Magic fans for life.”

Learn more about Devereux Florida, and learn more about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

Latest News

		Recreational Therapy Month: Enriching the lives of youth, adults with disabilities February is Recreational Therapy Month. Learn how Devereux is using recreational activities and programs to help those living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences acquire new skills, boost their self-confidence and improve their quality of life.
		Community supporters make holiday season special for Devereux Pennsylvania youth The holidays are over, but the memories remain of a special season filled with joy and gratitude for youth served by Devereux Pennsylvania. Through Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services’ “Operation Santa” program, community supporters, as well as center staff and their families, donated hundreds of toys to help fulfill the holiday wish lists - and more - of approximately 300 children and adolescents living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.
		Devereux article on engaging families in behavioral health treatment featured in Behavioral Health News An article written by Devereux National Director of Behavioral Health Services Crystal Taylor-Dietz, Psy.D., and Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, was recently featured in Behavioral Health News. The article - “The integral role of families in promoting mental health and managing mental illness” - discusses the importance of family engagement in behavioral health treatment.
		Adults share personal experiences on services through Devereux New Jersey’s Advisory Board Adults who receive services through Devereux New Jersey - who also sit on the center’s Advisory Board for individuals served - have an opportunity to make their voices heard and share their personal experiences on the services they receive.
		Autism Spectrum News features Devereux article on supporting individuals with disabilities in becoming self-advocates An article written by Devereux team members on supporting teens and adults with disabilities in becoming self-advocates was recently featured in Autism Spectrum News. The article includes interviews with three individuals who are enrolled in Devereux Pennsylvania’s Community Adult Autism Partnership Program as they offer tips on how to ensure your voice is heard.
		Devereux New Jersey Direct Support Professional/Lead Staff Nacole Moore Devereux New Jersey Direct Support Professional/Lead Staff Nacole Moore leads by example and is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand. Learn how she is inspiring all those around her.
		Celebrating Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes: Spotlight on Devereux Arizona Nursing Manager Tammy Maguire At Devereux, our employees are at the heart of everything we do - and are key to our success. Learn how Devereux Arizona Nursing Manager Tammy Maguire is serving and inspiring others every day.
		Devereux article on advocating for those who are nonspeaking or minimally verbal featured in Autism Spectrum News Read this Autism Spectrum News article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers suggestions on how to advocate for those who are nonspeaking or limited in their verbal communication.
		Planting seeds of learning: Devereux California’s greenhouse program helps adults grow job, life skills Adults who participate in Devereux California’s greenhouse vocational program are gaining more than a green thumb, they are cultivating critical job and life skills to help them increase their independence and enhance their overall quality of life.