By Jeff Helms

A vibrant spectrum of creativity is taking shape in new ways at Rainbow Omega, as adults with developmental disabilities express their God-given talents using crayons and clay.

Residents and day program participants at the Eastaboga ministry have long been lauded for growing poinsettias, mums and spring plants, but shoppers are now discovering Crayon Creations made from upcycled art supplies, as well as Christmas ornaments in various shapes and colors.

“Both products are additions to our vocational program,” said Rainbow Omega CEO Tim Hodge. “We’re excited because these items create more training opportunities for residents to develop skills. They enjoy working with their hands. It’s art, but they can see the end product. They love seeing them for sale in our gift shop.”

Rainbow resident Kathy said she appreciates earning money while working with her favorite colors — blue, yellow and pink.

“I enjoy living here,” said Kathy while carefully placing broken crayons into silicone molds. “I’ve been here 11 years and going for 12 next year, God willing.”

Beside her, Mickey gave discarded colors new life as football- and basketball-shaped art creations. Churches, schools and individuals donate crayons to Rainbow Omega, where residents peel and sort them before vocational trainers place the molds in special ovens.

“You want to be my friend?” Mickey inquires of every new visitor to Rainbow Omega.

When asked how he feels about his creations becoming Christmas gifts for kids, he responded with, “That’s great,” followed quickly by “Roll Tide!”

In addition to Auburn and Alabama-themed gift sets, Rainbow Omega’s artists make Crayon Creations in the form of astronauts, tractors, hearts, dinosaurs, flowers and more. The sets are available in the on-site Garden and Gift Shop, as well as Alabama Goods stores in Homewood, Hoover and Huntsville and at Reeves’ Peach Farm in Hartselle.

About 80 adults call Rainbow Omega home. Activities include a fitness program, arts and crafts, computer training, Bible studies and special needs sports teams. Residents and day program participants also enjoy field trips to local museums, sporting events, entertainment and shopping venues.

Hodge particularly praised the vocational program for helping Rainbow Omega citizens reach their full potential.

“Our vocational program has been in existence 30 years, and for the last 24 and half years, it’s been under the guidance of Gail Tillman,” he said. “Gail and her team do a fantastic job. They are wonderful in recognizing skills and talents the residents don’t realize they have.”

In addition to Crayon Creations, clay ornaments and greenhouse plants, individuals at Rainbow Omega produce owner’s manuals for every Honda vehicle manufactured in nearby Lincoln. They also assemble parts for Neptune Technology Group in Tallassee and Douglas Manufacturing in Pell City.

Julie came to Rainbow Omega last year. She’s worked in other areas of the vocational center but especially enjoys their newest venture. 

“I love it,” she said, as she and partner Amanda peeled white crayons. “I get to make money. It’s a good job.” 

The thought of children playing with their creations, however, made Julie’s face beam with pride. 

“I think the kids will love it, because kids love to color in coloring books,” she said.

Visit RainbowOmega.org to learn more.