Valarie Lee James

Founded all-volunteer, bi-national arts & activities programming with healing-centered craft ways for migrant families stranded at shelters and the streets at the Nogales port of entry. Also established trauma-informed Arts & Activities programs at two Migrant shelters in Tucson. Recruited and trained volunteer Arts facilitators since 2019.

Coordinated, planned, developed and implemented arts and activities designed to decrease anxiety and institute calm, and provide grace and agency to a traumatized population.

Sourced teachers, fiber arts equipment, supplies, and donations for the shelters serving these families on both sides of the border.

Opened a volunteer-run Etsy shop during the pandemic to help sell the artisan's work and establish the U.S. market for their wares going forward.

In 2024, the Artisans Beyond Borders Initiative helps to promote Direct-to-Artisan Sales to embroiderers, weavers and sewers and travels an educational exhibition of the artisans' cultural embroideries.

Coordinated and implemented activities designed to enrich the days for residents in the assisted living program. Rotated as needed to an additional memory care unit and rehab. Engaged residents in movies, entertainment, and concerts. Encouraged, supported and assisted residents with activities ranging from art classes to tabletop games and physical exercise that addressed the needs of participants with varying abilities. Accompanied residents to special events and appointments off campus. Officially retired in 2016.

Took over class for regular classroom teacher, managing assignments, student needs, and recordkeeping.

Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.

Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.

Maintained day-to-day classroom management and discipline to promote learning initiatives.