More than simply self-expression, art is a pure act of creation, making something from nothing. But art also possesses the power to inspire, nurture and invite exploration.

Friendship Community is very much in tune with art, its applications and what it can do. A faith-based organization headquartered at 1149 E. Oregon Road, Lititz, Friendship Community cultivates the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.

Friendship Community operates a day program known as Friendship Heart Studio, which connects 60 aspiring artists with professionals and volunteers. The work that the collaborations create is displayed at Bloomfield Village Gallery, 235 Bloomfield Drive, Lititz, Suite 111, and at Friendship Community's Lancaster city gallery, 118 N. Water St., Suite 101, Lancaster, not far from the city's Gallery Row.

The artwork created by participants in the Friendship Heart Studio program is first displayed at the studio downtown before being moved to the Bloomfield Village Gallery. All proceeds from the sale of the art goes back into the program.

But perhaps the greatest value created is the sense of purpose, freedom and accomplishment felt by the program's participants.

"The individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism, they're the artists," said Colton. "There is definitely a connection between brain activity and art. You're also bringing in colors and bringing in different ideas. The process of being able to express yourself through art is a whole therapeutic connection. Many people catch the excitement of the studio program."

Friendship Community opened its first studio and gallery on Main Street in Ephrata in 2008. Five years later, the operation was moved to the downtown Lancaster location on Water Street.

In 2018, when Friendship Community opened its human resources office on Bloomfield Drive, the second studio was created to complement the existing one.

"Our mission is cultivating the capabilities of the individuals," said Colton. "We want to support them as they impact the world around them. We're trying to give them experiences. We want everyone to have an everyday life. We want to make sure we're giving them whatever we have in our everyday lives."

In 2022, Friendship Community celebrated the 50th anniversary of its founding by members of the Mennonite community. Funded by the state and supported by the County of Lancaster, Friendship Community houses 72 residents, most of whom are local, in 24 group-home settings.

"In 1972, the Mennonite community was concerned by aging children with special needs," said Colton. "Not one, but many churches got together. They wanted their kids to learn life skills so they could live independently or partially independently. Now, we're growing, not only in the numbers we serve, but also the programs we're offering."

For additional information about Friendship Community, go to http://www.friendshipcommunity.net.