Salvation Army Kite-Making Program Serves as a Therapeutic Aid for Recovery

Since he was a child, Dion Richards had a passion for art. He enjoys painting, sculpting, cooking, and woodworking. His enthusiasm for creativity helped him discover a hobby that keeps him away from substance use.

While enrolled in the Addictions and Life Skills Program at The Salvation Army’s Harbour Light in Bermuda, Dion was introduced to a kite-making program that was part of an outdoor therapy initiative for the residents.

Although Dion had not made a kite since his school days, it didn’t take him long to start producing some of the highest quality kites the program has seen. His talent for making kites amazed staff and other clients. It also helped him keep his mind away from past struggles.

“I’m very creative. To me, it was another form of expressing my art,” Dion shared. “After addiction, you have to find something to fill that void. This was the hobby I picked.”

According to Harbour Light’s Manager, Chandra-Lee Bascome, the kites that participants make are eventually sold and the proceeds go toward the outdoor therapy program. Outdoor therapy involves a range of activities such as basketball, mini-golf, bowling, and swimming.

“After addiction, you have to find something to fill that void. This was the hobby I picked.”

“The kites have been a form of therapy for Dion,” Chandra-Lee said.

“Outdoor therapy involves them going out and learning how to take part in activities in a clean-living environment. The kites serve as a fundraiser for the Harbour Light clients to spend one day a week doing outdoor activities,” she added.

Dion’s stay at Harbour Light was longer than anticipated. His recovery was going well, but the pandemic hit during his time there, which extended his stay. However, the one good thing that came out of it was that Dion was able to take part in kite-making multiple times, which allowed him to perfect his craft.

He even won a kite competition at an agricultural exhibition and had the honour of meeting the Governor of Bermuda who presented him with the award for first place.

The quality of his kites makes them more valuable. They always helped raise more money than anticipated. Dion feels proud to be able to serve the program that helped him recover from substance use.

“It feels good. It’s very rewarding. It just shows my gratitude for what they’ve done for me,” Dion added.

After completing his recovery and leaving Harbour Light, Dion kept up with his hobby. Today, he has a full-time job and a whole new sober life. However, his daily responsibilities don’t stop him from maintaining his artistic side, which keeps him focused.

“The kites have been a form of therapy for Dion.”

“I just want to push myself with every kite I make. That is what helps me take up my spare time. It just keeps me in a creative mood,” Dion said.

Despite his talent, Dion does not like to sell his kites for profit. He believes that if he does, it might no longer feel like a hobby. However, he is always open to contributing to The Salvation Army. His famous kites kept helping fund the outdoor therapy program years after he left Harbour Light.

“The public is very aware of our kites now and we were struggling to have enough to sell. So, I just quickly went to Dion and asked if he would mind giving us some to sell. He graciously said yes,” Chandra-Lee said.

The Harbour Light program was developed to provide an atmosphere where male residents find support, understanding, guidance and healing. The goal is that by the time residents recover from addictions and leave this program, they will be ready to reintegrate into society, while continuing to develop a healthy lifestyle.

By Juan Romero