We’ve got yet another great organization we’re featuring in this month’s newsletter. You may be more familiar than this cause than you think. In 2009 Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr. starred in the film The Soloist, the true story account of gifted musician Nathaniel Ayers. The film portrays the friendship that developed between LA Times journalist Robert Lopez (Downey Jr.), and the artistically endowed Ayers (played by Foxx), as well as the mental illness (Schizophrenia) that took hold of Ayers life as a young man. Recently, The Nathaniel Anthony Ayers Foundation jumped on board our fundraising platform, and we had the opportunity to discuss their mission and goals with Ted Sapp, who serves as their Executive Director. The organization is based out of Atlanta, Georgia.

In an effort to support arts programs at mental health and arts organizations that serve the mentally ill, the sister to the film’s central character, Jennifer Ayers-Moore, founded The Nathaniel Anthony Ayers Foundation. Although it was the film that garnered widespread awareness to Ayers condition and other gifted individuals with mental illness, it was Ayers-Moore’s firsthand experience with her brother, and Lopez’s initial LA Times article and subsequent book that provided the impetus for starting the organization. The Foundation was launched in 2008, shortly after the publication of Lopez’s book The Soloist: A Lost Dream, an Unlikely Friendship, and the Redemptive Power of Music.

Regarding the film itself, Sapp said, “We want to use the film as a tool to foster discussion about mental illness.” One of their key initiatives includes the Nathaniel’s Place program. Nathaniel’s Place’s objective is to reach artistically gifted individuals with mental illness. They partner with other non-profits to promote the arts as a means of giving these talented folks the chance to share their gift with the world. A host organization will then provide a location at their facility, and identify individuals to take part in the program. Those with demonstrated skill in the visual, performing, and literary arts can participate.

“We want to continue to build, and allow others to share their gifts with the world,” said Sapp. Looking ahead the Ayers Foundation hopes to expand their initiatives to other states.

You can learn more about their story, volunteering, and various programs by visiting their website. We want to extend a special thanks to Sapp for taking the time to share with us.