In these days of diminished resources, institutions are seeking new and innovative measures that will maximize the use of resources. In the area of health and human services, promoting wellness and preventing illness are being recognized as a means of achieving optimal levels of living.

"Wellness" implies something positive and forward-looking. On the other hand, "Illness", is something negative, something that dwells in pathology whose causes lie in the past. "Wellness" as it relates to the arts is the subject of "Live Arts Experiences: The Impact on Health and Wellness," HAI's monograph now in its third edition. The publication provides analysis and evidence as to how and why the arts can be pivotal in sustaining and promoting health and wellness.

Is wellness measurable? "About 80-90% of large U.S. corporations offer some sort of wellness program, according to the Wellness Councils of America, a coalition representing 3,000 corporate wellness programs." (mednews.com, March 11, 2002).

While "H" "A" "I" is the abbreviation for the organization's name, it has assumed a deeper meaning over the decades... "H" for Hope, that we will overcome challenges And "I" for Inspiration to persevere in spite of seemingly overwhelming obstacles.

Discussed in this newsletter are three HAI programmatic areas, each of which build on the "well" part of humans and focuses on the positive in life. For one program, our work with youth, inspiration to persevere translates programmatically into empowerment, resiliency and imparting skills that will enable youth to overcome life's obstacles. For people with mental disabilities, HAI continues to promote hope and inspiration through enjoyment of quality live arts experiences. For frail elderly and seniors, this translates into continued involvement in the social and cultural fabric, the benefits of which are discussed in medical literature.