Hetlinger Creates


Creative Art Programs and Art Therapy Services

YOU CAN CREATE ART!

Crayons and art materials
Art therapy program
Arts and crafts

A Creative Outlet

Art can provide a way for people to express themselves and their feelings. It can improve self-esteem, self-awareness, be a way to bring people together and increase communication skills.


At Hetlinger we not only provide regular craft activities, but are also proud to partner with both Emporia State University's Art Therapy department and The Emporia Arts Council to deepen our artistic offerings.

Art therapy

Hetlinger Spring & Fall Plant & Art Sales

  • Browse a wonderful selection of greenhouse-grown houseplants, lovingly cared for by the individuals we serve at Hetlinger, along with unique, handcrafted artwork created by participants in our Hetlinger Creates art program.
  • Every purchase directly supports vocational training and hands-on skill development for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), providing meaningful opportunities to build confidence, develop valuable job skills, and take pride in their accomplishments.
Hetlinger Plant & Art Sale flyer with photos of people holding plants and painting art supplies

Hetlinger Spring & Fall Plant & Art Sales

  • Browse a wonderful selection of greenhouse-grown houseplants, lovingly cared for by the individuals we serve at Hetlinger, along with unique, handcrafted artwork created by participants in our Hetlinger Creates art program.
  • Every purchase directly supports vocational training and hands-on skill development for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), providing meaningful opportunities to build confidence, develop valuable job skills, and take pride in their accomplishments.
Art therapy

Hetlinger's Plant & Art Sales

  • Browse a wonderful selection of greenhouse-grown houseplants, lovingly cared for by the individuals we serve at Hetlinger, along with unique, handcrafted artwork created by participants in our Hetlinger Creates art program.
  • Every purchase directly supports vocational training and hands-on skill development for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), providing meaningful opportunities to build confidence, develop valuable job skills, and take pride in their accomplishments.
Art therapy

Emporia State University Art Therapy

  • Participants work alongside Art Therapy interns from Emporia State University.
  • Using paint, clay, or even leather, participants are involved in both group and individual sessions.
  • Developing social skills and improving self-esteem is our focus.
Art therapy

Hetlinger Creates Emporia Arts Council Partnership

This program offers a dedicated space within the Emporia Arts Council’s recently renovated downtown facility for artists with IDD to develop their skills, create original artwork, and potentially earn income from their creations. It operates five days a week year-round.

Hetlinger Creates has access to things like the clay studio and the new innovation lab, which will house iMacs, iPads and more.

  • Through Hetlinger we accept Medicaid/HCBS IDD waiver funding, as well as private pay. We also have some scholarships available for those who might not qualify for state funding.  Contact us for more information! 620-342-1087.
  • Participants can be involved in Emporia's First Friday Art Walk where original work is displayed and participants can sell prints of their work.