Haven

Real Eyes Truth Inc. is the parent organization of Haven, a group that supports people with physical illness. They have 3 main holistic programs that run throughout the year in different seasons. Rowing to Recovery, Centering with Clay, and Haven for Healing Support Group. They have opened their programming to Real Eyes Truth participants, and anyone with a physical or mental health wellness journey is welcome to be a part of their programs.

Centering with Clay has 3 sessions throughout the year with 9 participants

Primary Purpose and Rationale for the Centering with Clay Program

Centering with Clay was created as a sanctuary for individuals facing significant medical and life challenges—a communal space where participants can engage in a mindful, hands-on activity that offers both creative freedom and emotional relief. The act of working with clay encourages presence and focus, creating a therapeutic experience that allows participants to momentarily step away from the weight of their diagnoses, treatments, and daily physical or mental burdens.

For those living with serious health conditions, life is often consumed by a relentless cycle of medical appointments, therapies, and the exhausting pursuit of wellness. In this reality, finding time and space to simply be—to reconnect with oneself and with others who understand—is rare and deeply needed. Centering with Clay provides that space. It fosters connection, creativity, and emotional expression in a way that is both healing and humanizing.

Participants often describe their time with clay as a “deep dive into the creative soul.” Clay, unlike the uncontrollable aspects of illness, is pliable—open to being shaped and formed into something meaningful. This process not only provides a sense of agency and accomplishment, but it also opens the door to heartfelt expressions of gratitude. Many participants share their creations as gifts to caregivers, loved ones, and healthcare professionals—small tokens of appreciation that embody their journey and the deep connections formed along the way. These handmade pieces become lasting symbols of presence, love, and legacy.

Through creativity and community, Centering with Clay supports healing, promotes mental wellness, and helps individuals reclaim moments of joy and meaning in the midst of challenging circumstances. It is art as therapy, connection as medicine, and presence as a path to resilience.

Testimonials for Centering with Clay

“Since participating in Centering With Clay, I have discovered a hidden creative streak. I became focused on molding clay into functional art instead of the burdens of living with advanced cancer. The sense of belonging, being a part of a larger community, takes me away from the isolation that often accompanies chronic illness. I feel accepted by my community of potters, whether I create beautiful or ugly pottery, and am doubly sated when I can then gift my successful pieces to someone who has cared for me. Participating in and being a part of this community is one of the activities that gives my life purpose. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this community for the richness it has brought to my life.” SM

“It’s an honor to express my gratitude & appreciation for Haven’s Centering With Clay. Since my accident in 2018 I’ve faced many challenges both physically and mentally. The community of friends that encompass Haven have collectively supported each other’s creativity. We are inspired and inspire one another’s journey, always taking a moment to really look at the beauty created by one another that transcends into life. Moving forward for me, 3 hours on Thursday is absolutely where I desire to be. Peace….” MF

“Haven's Centering With Clay is a wonderful experience. For three hours each week we are able to clear our minds of all thoughts of our challenges with our health and life in general. It is a great stress reliever. Working with the Clay and creating beauty is empowering and affirming that we can learn new activities when there are many things we love that we can no longer participate in. I look forward to our pottery class each week and am thankful that Sarah at Meetinghouse Clay holds a spot for our group each week!” ML

“Going to meeting house clay for pottery classes has given me a chance to have a creative outlet to express myself. While I was there, I was able to put my stresses aside and focus on learning a new skill. I was also given an opportunity to meet and connect with other people that were also going through a difficult time. Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and I would highly recommend Centering with Clay to anyone that would like to gain a new skill and develop more peace of mind.” AL

“I love the feel of the clay between my hands. I love creating something from nothing and the fresh start with each new piece. I love that the clay requires my full attention and pulls me into center as I push it into center. I love that I am fully present while I am working with the clay and the rest of my mental chatter can wait. I love that the people in my class understand me, without having to explain. I love Centering with Clay at the Meetinghouse.” LJ

“Teaching the group of people in Centering with Clay has taught me so much about myself and how to be an inclusive and supportive teacher. I learn resilience, friendship, community, compassion, and humor from this group, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the people of Centering with Clay! Our work together has made me a better teacher and a better person.” Shannon Gallagher, instructor.