Painting is known to relieve an artist of stress. SMP took this knowledge and held a painting class with complimentary pizza for anyone who attended. Many attendees viewed the event as a chance to de-stress after the holidays and an eventful year.

“Seeing how COVID-19 effected everyone, I always want there to be opportunities to get out, meet new people, and de-stress,” said Cerise Nakaima O’Connor, Camp Foster SMP coordinator and native of Honolulu, Hawaii. “The SMP follows the three pillars of volunteer, recreation, and quality of life. With these kinds of events, I feel like we cover both recreation and quality of life in one event.”

Arisa Miller, a paint instructor, was hired to help guide and teach participants on how or what to paint. The template given was a bamboo and plum tree to symbolize good luck and hope.

“I love teaching Marines because they are so creative,” said Miller. “I’m here as a teacher, but I always learn from them as well. They always find new ways to imprint themselves onto the canvas.”

By the end of the day, everyone had a different painting with each painter's personality. Miller even helped painters write everyone's name in Hiragana to add a cultural touch to each painting.

“This event is great for everyone to relax,” said Miller. “They set their mind to something different from when they are at work and it's great to see that concentration on something so creative.”

O’Connor says that the SMP is always open for new ideas.

“If there are things you would like to see us do, give us positive or negative feedback to see how we can best help the single and unaccompanied Marines while they are here,” said O’Connor.
SMP holds recreation events and volunteer events every month. To participate in the next event, contact your local SMP.