ST. LOUIS — Every day, multiple groups across St. Louis work to effect change in our city in different ways, including artistic expression.
In a city where life can often be fast, Story Stitchers like Branden Lewis are working to slow things down for at-risk youth between the ages of 16 and 25.
"We've had youth tell us directly that this place has saved their lives,” Branden Lewis said.
The non-profit works to create social change by providing an outlet for expression.
"Some youth feel like this is the only place they feel safe and heard,” Lewis said.
"I'm very always in my head and I have some things,” Bryson Brooks said. “Being here gives me an escape from my head, relax, have fun, and let go."
The collective brings together artists of all forms: singers, dancers, poets and podcasters working to share the stories of St. Louis.
"We believe that in our city a lot of the violence comes from lacks,” Lewis said. “A lack of health expression or whatnot. A lack of knowledge of how you're feeling and how to express yourself in a way that's productive and a healthy way."
"When I'm writing my lyrics I feed off of my personal emotions,” Brooks said.
Words that are part of Brook’s story will become part of a public service announcement created by Story Stitchers to change the stigma surrounding mental health.
"It puts a smile on my face that I'm helping people with my words and that I'm part of something so much bigger,” Brooks said. “We're making music. We're helping the world with our music. That speaks volumes to me."
That message also spoke to 5 on Your Side, which recently delivered a $10,000 TEGNA Foundation grant to Story Stitchers so it can continue making a difference in our city.
"When a youth comes up and says thank you for helping a place like this exist,” Lewis said. “That to me is the victory."
For more information about Story Stitchers click here.
For more information about TEGNA Foundation grants click here.