Creative Collaboration
In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, first responders needed downloadable resources applicable to traumatic stress. But those particular resources did not exist. My younger brother, who was a trained emergency volunteer on the ground, contacted one of our sisters, who is a professor at the University of Pittsburgh. Soon I got involved, and that creative collaboration between siblings became something much bigger than the three of us.
Mental health specialists, crisis responders, educators, students, photographers, designers, and other professionals were inspired to join the effort. Together we created resources to assist adults caring for youth victims displaced and distressed by the hurricane. Project Reassure was born, within a matter of days, with coordinated urgency and fantastic teamwork. The site continues to be a free resource to those who care for children following a traumatic event.
I was especially proud to play a founding role in Project Reassure. But every creative collaboration is an energizing opportunity to prove that Aristotle was right when he said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”
I don’t know who coined the phrase “two heads are better than one.” Some historians attribute it to John Heywood, circa 1546. Other scholars trace it to ancient scripture. But it still applies today. So whatever kind of creative collaboration you have in mind, I’d love to hear about it to see if I, too, can lend a hand.
“Excellent job.”
“These video scripts are great. Keep up the good work!”