COW started as a small grass roots organization to help a local community. Since then, it has grown into a world-wide grass roots organization, delivering art and supplies throughout 6 continents!

COW starts small…

COW began at Common Cathedral in Longmont, Colorado in the United States, an outdoor worship service for the homeless modeled after Boston Commons Common Cathedral. For one hour before the service, people in need had the opportunity to experience “Art in the Park” as COW provided free art materials for both children and adults who wanted to create and share their art. The effect was overwhelming, particularly when homeless participants had the chance to express themselves through art, sharing hopes and dreams of a better life.

Temporary art “galleries” were displayed at the park each Friday night. Mobile art kits were then developed to be given away to children and adults in crisis.

… and quickly grows big!

One of the most important parts of COW’s international expansion was the Magic Suitcase. The Magic Suitcase evolved as a creative means of transporting multiple kits and art exchanges of completed art work. While the original Magic Suitcase still travels to distant places, many suitcases have been created since, transporting hundreds of art kits to many more places.

Explore where in the world COW suitcases and art kits have traveled!

Never forgetting COW Roots…

Though COW has expanded its art kit distributions worldwide, the organization will continue to ensure that local efforts and outreach continues. Since it’s inception, COW has worked continuously with organization serving the homeless in Colorado, USA as well as United Way. More recently, COW has helped reach out to communities in crisis, particularly those affected by the High Park Fire and Canyon Flooding in Colorado.

…and never forgetting to put down new COW Roots!

The newest COW initiative has been the slow initiation of a chapter in Vermont, USA. COW has already begun to collaborate with local groups like the Vermont Camp Agape and Kids 4 Peace and will continue to reach out to try and reach communities in need throughout the New England area.