Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Gina Zaffarano. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Gina thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve ever undertaken is without a doubt, the creation of Ziggy’s Art Bus. As a business owner for nearly 30 years, co-owning The Hair District Collective in Uptown and District on 50th in Edina, I’ve always found fulfillment in building and nurturing communities. However, I also yearned to do something in addition, something profoundly unique, that would bring light and sunshine to the lives of those who need it most: kids in hospice care and facing critical life-threatening conditions.

Gina, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce Ziggy’s Art Bus to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Recognizing that all kids love art, the idea of Ziggy’s Art Bus was born—a mobile art studio designed to reach children facing illness wherever they may be in the Twin Cities area. Remarkably, there are only two nonprofit organizations in the entire United States that provide this crucial service, bringing art directly to the homes of children facing illness. This accessibility is especially vital for those with mobility challenges or compromised immune systems.

What sets Ziggy’s apart is our bright, cheery, and kid-friendly Art Bus, offering a unique experience right outside the doorstep of these young artists. It’s an environment that radiates positivity and creativity, making each visit a happy adventure of imagination and self-expression.

Ziggy’s is all about infusing ‘heART’ into our art experiences. Children create alongside a loving volunteer companion and our projects often incorporate hand tracings or thumbprints, creating cherished artworks for families to treasure.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Every smile, every unique artwork, and every connection forged at Ziggy’s Art Bus serves as a powerful reminder of our mission to provide free, accessible, and joyful art experiences to this underserved population. Ziggy’s is driven by compassion, fueled by the transformative power of art, and our destination is clear: to bring joy to the lives of children facing adversity.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

When the idea of Ziggy’s Art Bus was just a spark, I shared it with a group of incredibly supportive community members who believed in the mission as passionately as I did. To embark on our journey, we hosted a fundraiser that enabled us to acquire and design our beloved bus.

We are grateful to our original supporters who have remained steadfast in their commitment to our cause. They have been joined by new champions who have been inspired by the impact we have in creating joyful moments through the magical power of creative play.

To ensure the wheels of our Art Bus keep turning, serving families facing heartbreak and immense daily challenges, we rely on the generosity of donors like you. Your contributions at ziggysartbus.org allow us to continue to bring art and smiles, one mile at a time.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ziggysartbus.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ziggysartbus/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ziggysartbus