About I Am Glad You Are Here

I Am Glad You Are Here is an ongoing art and language project promoting mindfulness and gratitude through creative expression. Founded by Michelle Anne Harris in 2008, the project began as a personal postcard series—an expression of gratitude toward the teachers and peers who supported her during a 10-year journey to complete her undergraduate degree.

Since then, I Am Glad You Are Here has grown into a broader community initiative. Postcards and journals inspired by the original project are now sold locally in Philadelphia and online, with all proceeds supporting free and low-cost community-based art and language workshops throughout the city.

Over the years, I Am Glad You Are Here has evolved into an umbrella organization that includes ArtZine, a youth-centered art and language workshop series held in bookstores and libraries, designed for young people and their families.

In 2025, the project expanded further to launch Penpals for Palestine!, an international, experimental art and correspondence exchange connecting youth in Philadelphia with youth in Palestine through postcards, zines, and shared creative dialogue. Developed in collaboration Philadelphia-based artists Michelle Anne Harris, Kim Altomare and Jericho based artist Yaqeen Yamani.

We are also thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of our physical headquarters: the Penpals for Palestine! Clubhouse + ArtZine Workshop and Children's Community Library, located in Olde Kensington, Philadelphia , Pa 19122. This space will serve as a creative hub for children and their families, to connect through art, language, and solidarity.