Free Arts for Abused Children, a non-profit organization in the United States, was founded in Malibu, California in 1977 by an art therapist and a friend living near a group home who believed art could help transform the lives of abused and neglected children. In each of its various programs, the goal is to use dance, drama, music, the visual arts, and other avenues of creativity to encourage children - and often the adults in their lives - to channel emotions, release anger, and develop positive methods of communications.
The philosophy behind all FAAC programs is simply that, "Art Heals." Besides the 90 facilities in California, there are affiliates in Arizona, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, and Pennsylvania - and they're eager to have more.