Community Comes Together to Paint New Mural at Damien Center

Volunteers at the Damien Center came together over Easter weekend to paint a mural for the organization's new headquarters, a 180-square-foot masterpiece that will welcome clients, staff, and volunteers to their new facility opening this spring.

The mural, inspired by flowers and butterflies in its designer's home garden, is meant to help people find themselves through art. "Some of these flowers come from our own garden," said Abdul Qahar Behzad, an artist. "And I was sitting there, and I was like, 'I have to create this in a way where people can find themselves through the art.'"

The new building on north arsenal avenue will be the first purpose-built facility for people living with HIV in the state, providing care for those affected by the disease. The organization helps prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and offers support services.

Several dozen volunteers took time out of their holiday weekend to come and pick up a brush, working together to create this beautiful piece of art that will become a lasting symbol of community and hope.