How it All Started The PeaceLove Story
“I painted. It made me feel better. I thought it would help others.”
PeaceLove began in 2009 when cousins Matt and Jeff set out to create a movement the mental health community could rally behind. A movement that encouraged creativity, self expression, community, and storytelling.

SEEKING PEACE OF MIND
Jeff began painting at the suggestion of a friend after completing exposure response therapy. Despite having no formal training, Jeff found painting relieved the symptoms of his OCD and granted him a sense of control. It became a way for him to express himself.
In early 2009, Jeff and his cousin Matt purchased a bunch of art supplies and headed to a children’s intensive treatment unit at the local psychiatric hospital. Jeff shared his story and struggles and challenged the kids to paint what gave them peace of mind. The kids not only had fun but were able to communicate through their art in ways that they couldn’t in words. This experience inspired the creation of PeaceLove.

PEACELOVE SPREADS
With nothing but a cart full of art supplies and belief in the expressive arts, Matt and Jeff created PeaceLove to share the power of creativity with others.

THE CREATORS PROGRAM
In 2015, PeaceLove launched their CREATORS Program, training professionals to use the PeaceLove workshops with their populations. Since then, PeaceLove has impacted more than 65,000 lives.
Meet Our Team
We’re a group of passionate individuals dedicated to making the world a more mentally healthy place. Our purpose is to empower people to share stories and create peace of mind through expressive arts experiences.

Jeff Sparr

Matt Kaplan

Helen Leffers

Jen Sparr

Joy Lugo

Maegan DuBois

Mia DeMarco

Abbie Stenberg

Kim DiOrio-Rooney

Deidre Fraser

Eric Rice

Alli Leson

Gloria Sparr

Victoria Nadine Rose
