Written by Taylor McKinley

A person’s facial appearance significantly influences their daily interactions, impacting everything from grocery store visits to the formation of friendships. FACES, a Chattanooga based craniofacial nonprofit, brings comfort and acceptance to those in this community. 

“We help children and adults get desperately needed craniofacial surgeries,” said Kim Fox, President of FACES. “Not only do these people have to deal with numerous surgeries, but they also have to deal with peer pressure and people being mean to them, and calling them names.”

The work of FACES and Bud’s Creative Art Center go beyond Jewelry Making or Paint classes. Children and adults undergo life changing surgeries that will impact how they carry themselves for the rest of their lives. The community plays a significant role in getting those who suffer from craniofacial anomalies surgeries, while also benefiting their artistic abilities as well.

“Every time you take a class at Bud’s you are helping the children and adults of FACES,” Fox said. “So you’re doing a really good thing for yourself and you’re doing something really good for FACES.” 

FACES distinguishes itself by actively raising awareness about laws that protect individuals with facial differences and advocating for face equality as an essential human right. 

“Sadly so many people that have a facial difference actually do get discriminated against, “ Fox said. “Sometimes they either don’t get the job they want or they keep them back in the warehouse.”

Continue reading “Face Value” →