‘New Murals Bring New Hope’ to Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida

The Children’s Advocacy Center Unveils Inspiring Murals with Local Artist Alex Bustamante

[Fort Myers, FL] – [October 1, 2024] – The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida (CAC) is thrilled to announce a vibrant and hopeful transformation within its walls, thanks to an incredible collaboration with local artist, Alex Bustamante. This initiative was designed to provide a new energy and spark hope within the children who visit the agency, as the Center’s mission is to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for children who have experienced trauma.

Alex Bustamante, the proud founder of Brandbug, a creative haven where art, design, and strategic branding converge to make your visions come to life, has painted 2 murals thus far, with plans to design a series of beautiful murals throughout CAC’s facility. These captivating murals are designed not only to brighten the space but also to foster healing and inspire hope among the children and families served by CAC.

“The power of art to heal and uplift cannot be overstated,” said Alicia Shannon, CEO of the Children’s Advocacy Center. “Alex’s incredible talent has brought a new dimension of warmth and optimism to our environment. These murals will play a crucial role in creating a more welcoming and comforting space for the children we support.”

The murals, which feature vibrant colors and enchanting playful images, were thoughtfully designed to connect with the experiences and emotions of the children who visit the CAC. The first mural, an image of a little girl holding a pinwheel, was created to remind the community of the national symbol for child abuse prevention. The pinwheel represents the carefree, joyful experiences that should characterize childhood and the nurturing environments we strive to create for children. While the agency sees between 100 and 150 cases of child physical and sexual abuse and neglect each month, CAC aims to improve the lives of at-risk children & their families through prevention services. 

 The second mural, a larger than life set of lovely sea turtles, gives the agency’s lobby a fresh new energy, while maintaining the calming, ocean theme that was designed by CAC’s founder and former CEO, Jill Turner. Each mural reflects themes of resilience, hope, and renewal, offering a visual representation of the positive change and recovery that the CAC strives to foster. At least three more murals are being discussed and designed to complete the initiative. Local businesses can sponsor one of the new murals by contributing funds or materials, thereby enhancing community engagement and showcasing their commitment to the mission and initiative.

“I am deeply honored to contribute to such a meaningful project,” said Alex Bustamante. “My hope is that these murals will serve as a source of comfort and inspiration for the children and families who walk through these doors.”

To see these murals and learn more about the Children’s Advocacy Center, community members can tour the agency and experience the impact of this project firsthand. The Children’s Advocacy Center invites the community to join in celebrating this new chapter and to witness the positive impact that creative expression can have on the healing process. To set up a tour, contact Sahara Hines at [email protected].

About The Children’s Advocacy Center

The Children’s Advocacy Center provides a safe and supportive environment for children who have experienced abuse or trauma. Through a comprehensive approach that includes forensic interviews, medical evaluations, and therapeutic services, the CAC works to ensure that every child receives the care and support they need to heal and thrive.

About the Artist

As a local female entrepreneur, Alex Bustamante takes immense pride in contributing to the artistic tapestry of our community. Brandbug is more than a creative studio; it’s a celebration of empowerment, originality, and entrepreneurial spirit. She understands the unique needs of the community, and the goal is to make space a masterpiece that reflects her client’s individuality.