David Bjorgaard believes strongly in the healing value of artistic expression. That’s why every Thursday at noon, the Kansas City, Mo., Local 412 journeyman electrician swaps his tools for brushes and oil paint, leaves his job and heads to West Platte High School, about 30 miles from Kansas City. There, the Kansas City Power & Light’s Iatan Generating Station employee teaches landscape painting to art students—many of whom have disabilities or need specialized services.

“When I was in school, creating art always built my self-esteem and made me feel like I could accomplish anything,” Bjorgaard said. “I try to pass that feeling along to youth who are looking for something to help them feel more upbeat about their abilities.”

Bjorgaard works one-on-one with students for about two hours, teaching them a particular style of landscape painting—made popular by artist Bob Ross on Public Broadcasting Service programming—that yields remarkable results quickly. “After a few hours, the kids are amazed with what they have made,” Bjorgaard said.

“The kids are turning out some fantastic work,” said West Platte art instructor Nan Taylor. “With David, many of the students who would not ordinarily be in a mainstream art class are getting the chance to develop something spectacular. They’re gleaming when they show their completed paintings to friends and other teachers.”

KCP&L sponsors Bjorgaard’s work at West Platte through the Energizing Our Community program, the utility’s initiative to increase employees’ volunteerism in the company’s service and generating areas in Missouri and Kansas.

“I feel fortunate that my company wants me out there serving people,” Bjorgaard said. “It helps to have a good-paying union job that allows me the time and freedom to pursue my passions.”

An accomplished artist, Bjorgaard started oil painting nearly two decades ago when his 9-year-old stepson took an interest in the medium. With an engaging and easygoing style in the classroom, Bjorgaard took to teaching naturally. Having honed his chops on the canvas, Bjorgaard has volunteered his time and energy throughout the years at numerous schools in the Kansas City area—as well as at the Bridge Home, a facility for abused and neglected youth. He spends most of his time these days at West Platte.

“I would love more than anything to travel around in a van from shelter to shelter, to homes for abused kids, to juvenile detention centers or any place a child is having a tough time,” Bjorgaard said. “I know for a fact that getting these kids on the right track would have an effect that would last decades.”

Ty Roach, an 18-year-old junior at West Platte who has developmental delays, saw Bjorgaard in action one day at school and wanted to explore his world of oil painting. Under Bjorgaard’s wing, Roach—who has fine motor skill challenges—has dazzled teachers, parents and the community with his breathtaking landscape images. Roach’s paintings have been on display in the Weston Public Library and won four awards at the Platte County Fair.

“I was extremely impressed with Ty’s work the first time I saw it,” said Frances Roach, Ty’s mother. “David is a compassionate, dedicated teacher who is good at explaining techniques while also giving students freedom.” She said that some of Ty’s future goals include selling his art and winning ribbons at the Missouri State Fair.

“In the end, it’s not just about the art—it’s about believing in yourself and following your dreams,” Bjorgaard said. “I want these students to understand that if you have confidence, you can do anything.”

To see works by Ty Roach and other students, visit www.icandrawportraits.com.