Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of CourageCollages?

CourageCollages workshops are intended to facilitate the emotional coping and healing process for cancer patients and survivors. There are many paths to healing after a cancer diagnosis including traditional therapy, support groups and journaling. The CourageCollages workshop is an additional way for individuals to express their feelings, hopes and fears on the journey to their “new normal.”

What happens during a CourageCollages workshop and how long is it?

Our workshops are informal, friendly and with a small group of 6 – 12 individuals. The following description gives a synopsis of our basic workshop which runs 4 – 5 hours.

First, there is a short overview of the collage process, followed by an introductory exercise for all the participants.

Next, the process of finding the right words, pictures and materials for each individual’s collage begins and this often takes an hour or more. Approximately two hours after the beginning of the workshop, participants begin to layout their selected materials and pictures and permanently adhere their materials.

Then, in the last hour of the workshop, participants are invited to share their collage with the whole group. This is entirely voluntary and no one is required to share.

Finally, the workshop wraps up with a brief closing exercise and participants leave with their collage.

Workshops are held in accessible places on either the ground floor or with an elevator. Easy access to restroom facilities is provided. Light food and beverages are also provided at each workshop. A supporting friend or family member may attend if the workshop participant desires to provide support and to jointly work on the collage.

What do I need to bring to a CourageCollages workshop?

You do not have to bring anything to a CourageCollages workshop. All materials or creating your collage are provided. At the workshop there will already be a large supply of magazines, glue sticks, other adhesive products, ribbons, buttons, vellum quotes, embellishments, chipboard and sticker letters, scissors, etc. You will also receive a 20” X 30” foam board to create your collage on.

This workshop is all about YOU. Many people find it useful to bring some personal mementos and photographs. A good rule of thumb would be 5 – 10 photographs of people, pets and places that are meaningful to you. These should be extra copies because you will be gluing them to the foam board with permanent adhesive. You can also bring cards, letters or other personal memorabilia that can be adhered to a foam board.

Finally, if you have magazines that reflect your special interests, you can bring them to help further customize the words, pictures and ideas in your collage.

If possible, bring a pair of scissors. Although we provide scissors, we may not have enough for a larger group. You may also bring extra magazines to share with the group if you like.

We do ask for registration for the workshop to ensure we have sufficient space and materials for all participants

How large are the workshops and who attends?

Workshops usually have between 6 – 12 participants who are cancer patients or survivors. We deliberately keep our workshops small so everyone will have a chance to get to know the other participants and to be heard should they wish to share part of their personal journey.

Some workshops may be specific for a certain type of cancer, but most are open to participants who have experienced any type of cancer. If a workshop is for a specific group or type of cancer, it will be noted on our website and on any flyers. Workshops are open to both genders and adults (age 18 and over) of all ages. Special workshops for older children (ages 13 - 18), and for younger children who attend with their parents, are also held.

In addition to the participants, there are two facilitators at each workshop. One of the facilitators will generally have a background in therapy and/or health care. All of our facilitators receive training in working with groups and with cancer survivors; and many of our facilitators are cancer survivors themselves.

Is there a fee to participate in a workshop?

Most workshops are supported by sponsoring organizations, grants or private donations. A small materials fee is requested for the majority of our workshops.

One of our core principles is that cost will never prevent an individual from attending and participating in a workshop. If a fee is noted on your workshop, and it would be a financial hardship, please contact us at cluzier@couragecollages.org to arrange for a full or partial waiver of the workshop fee.

Do I have to talk about myself or my collage at the workshop?

Everyone has different comfort levels with sharing their personal story. Participants are encouraged to share as they feel comfortable. Absolutely no one is made to feel they must share. This is a personal, creative expression of thoughts and feelings and every individual’s privacy is respected.

Will pictures be taken and if yes, how are they used?

At the beginning of every workshop, participants are asked if they are comfortable with, and willing to have, their pictures taken. Anyone can opt out of this and their wishes are respected. We like to take pictures for our website and for our brochures and other related materials. For those who are comfortable with having their pictures taken and used, we have a written permission and release form.

Are the workshops cancer specific? Age specific? Gender specific?

Some of our workshops are cancer specific, age specific and/or gender specific; but most are not. If a workshop is for a specific type of cancer group, we will note it on the workshop flyers and the upcoming workshops list. The same applies for if it is gender specific. The only age criteria we have is adults are ages 18 and over, and we do offer specialty workshops for children, teenagers and young adults who are less than 18 years of age.

How can I arrange for a CourageCollages workshop to occur for individuals in my support group? At my employer? With my church, synagogue or mosque? My treatment center or health care facility? Anywhere else?

CourageCollages workshops are provided on an ongoing and regularly scheduled basis at different locations. In addition, organizations can fully or partially support a workshop for their members or community. The elements of partial support may include providing the facility, food and beverages, a donation for materials cost and/or a stipend for the facilitators. We will work with individuals and organizations to provide a workshop to meet the needs of their cancer patients and survivors. You may either call us at 240/676-5004 or write to us at cluzier@couragecollages.org to discuss your needs.

What if I can only attend for 2 – 3 hours of the workshop?

Experience has taught us that 2 or 3 hours is not enough time to complete the process. Please check our website, or contact us, to find a date, time and location that works for you.

Can I bring a friend or a family member?

We offer a variety of workshops including some that encompass bringing a friend or family member who is important in your life and who may join you in creating your collage. Please call at 240/676-5004 or email us at cluzier@couragecollages.org to see if this is an option for the workshop you want to attend.

How can I donate to CourageCollages?

Thank you for considering a donation to CourageCollages. Your support is critical, valuable and greatly appreciated whether they are financial contributions or in-kind contributions. CourageCollages is a 501(c) (3) organization. You may mail your donation, payable to: CourageCollages, to: 10319 Westlake Drive, Suite 261, Bethesda, Maryland 20817. You will receive a letter of receipt thanking you for your donation and that you can use for your annual personal tax filings.