Healing Headbands Project® is a nonprofit organization based in New York. Our purpose is to inspire others to develop a healing mindset by integrating laughter with art. Our core program awakens the creative mind and helps those who are healing. We encourage participants to express themselves and capture this high moment achieved through laughter with the art of painting. Their final product is custom printed on special soft UV protected fabric, which is then sewn into headbands. The headbands are packaged and delivered with love. This headband is now a healing headband and is a daily reminder that happiness is a state of mind. The goal of this project is to build a positive foundation of joy that empowers each of us to change the way we think about healing.
Barbara Grapstein
Barbara Grapstein is the founder of Healing Headbands Project Inc. As a Global Laughter Ambassador, Certified Laughter Leader and Laughter Yoga Instructor, Barbara's passion is her never ending devotion to helping others through philanthropy complemented by her entrepreneurial spirit. Barbara is actively involved with several organizations including the Association of Applied Therapeutic Humor(AATH), Steve Wilson's World Laughter Tour and Comedy Cures.
Barbara has had the privilege of engaging with many influencers and leaders in the field including the "Guru of India", Dr. Madan Kataria, founder of Laughter Yoga. Barbara is a consultant for holistic health, and serves to help children and families living with cancer. The program currently runs in hospitals, schools, organizagtions in the North East.
Joanie Accolla
Joan Accolla, based in New York is currently the Co-Founder and Executive Director of "Healing Headbands Project", a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting emotional well-being through laughter and creative expression. Joan Accolla brings over 30 years of experience in education, nonprofit leadership, and wellness programming. She has collaborated with hospitals, schools, businesses, and community organizations, and has trained professionals across sectors in laughter therapy and healing arts. Joan holds certifications in Laughter Yoga Leadership and therapeutic facilitation and has developed the signature "Laugh, Create, Heal" workshop model. With a versatile skill set that includes Program Development, Strategic Partnerships, Nonprofit Management, Creative Arts Therapy, and Community Engagement, Joan Accolla is a driving force in wellness innovation and compassionate leadership.