We Are…
Founded in 2021, Bears ‘N’ Stuff was born out of the belief that art can be a tool for positive change, both for individuals and for society. We recognize that those who are incarcerated often face a lack of resources, support, and opportunities for self-expression. By providing a platform for their creative voices, we aim to break the cycle of incarceration through the development of skills, self-reflection, and personal transformation.
Our team consists of inmates from the Washington State Penitentiary and the Sustainable Practices Lab within. We collaborate with correctional facilities to create safe spaces for artistic expression, offering supplies, and mentorship to those incarcerated.
The inmates named themselves “The Helping Hands”.
“Dear Friends & Supporters in Libby,
I would like to thank you all for the opportunity to help make a difference. This all started as an idea and has become and inspiration. The fact that so many people from different backgrounds and communities have come together to bring good, comfort, help, and joy into the world really warms my heart to the core.
Whenever the guys in here get an update, I wish you could see the glow they all get. Even the tough old-school guys have a shine in them.”
-Geraldo C De Jesus III
The WSP (Washington State Penitentiary) Sustainable Practices Lab is dedicated to helping our community and the environment through teaching and employing sustainable practices in departments like: quilting, sewing, wood working, horticulture, and electronics repair, just to name a few.
