Mission

Inspiring individuals to explore and embrace their authentic self, better understanding the value they contribute to the community.

Vision

A community of mindful people contributing to the health and happiness of the larger community. 

Strategy

Through individual and group processes, lead participants to connect through Education, Connection, Creativity, Mindfulness practices, and sharing of personal stories

WE BELIEVE…

  • WE believe change starts at an individual level by exploring and embracing their unique self.

  • WE believe when an individual begins to embrace and share their authentic self with their community, this permits others to do the same.

  • WE believe that Education, Connection, Creativity, and Mindfulness practices will promote a healthier, more supportive, thriving community.

  • WE believe understanding and implementing emotional intelligence and self-regulation skill sets will enhance an individual's life and strengthen the community.

  • WE believe self-expression through painting, writing, spoken word, and other forms of self-expression invite others to connect with their authentic self, supporting a thriving community.

  • WE believe creating a safe space for others to share their story and knowledge promotes camaraderie, support, growth, compassion, and understanding of an individual and community.

Meet the Team

Inner Genius Background

Some of you may know us as Paint Your Story. Paint Your Story Foundation (PYS) was established in 2016, gaining its 501(c)(3) status in 2017. In 2023 we decided to change our name to reflect our revised mission.  Our new name is Inner Genius. Our mission began serving the mission of "Inspiring individuals to explore and embrace their unique self, better understanding the value they contribute to the community" through small private events in 2016. 

 We thank you for supporting our workshops and programs! With your support over the years, we've enjoyed sharing our mission with the following entities. 

  • White Bear Lake Public Safety Department,

  • Hugo School District,

  • Ramsey County Correctional Facility,

  • ANew Recovery Service for Women,

  • Avivo,

  • Partnered with Hamline University Center for Justice and Law, 

  • Community Engagement with Safe Summer Nights
    St.Paul Police & St. Paul Park and Recreation,

  • Shakopee Prison,  

  • Union Gospel Mission,

  • Project Home,

  • Valley Community Presbyterian Church, 

  • Gracewood Senior Care Facility, 

  • Community outreach in Belize, 

  • Community Engagement through Inspirational Spark, and

  • Local Non-profit: Safe Haven


Learn more about the CEO, Nycole Fry.

Nycole's passion for the arts, social change, and connection have been a cornerstone in her life. Her mission is to inspire others to explore and embrace their unique self through the numerous modules offered based on her expertise, personal experiences, field observations, and education. Nycole is a Co-founder and CEO of the non-profit Inner Genius, owner of Cultivating Creativity, innovator of Paint Your Story and Mental Emotional Mastery workshops, as well as a certified peer review specialist with a B.A. in Social Science. With decade-plus years of serving others within her community, Nycole has had the privilege to share her passion and mission with the White Bear Lake Public Safety Department, Hugo School District, Matoska International IB World School, Ramsey County Correctional Facility, A New Recovery Service for Women, Avivo, Hamline University Center for Justice and Law, Kandiyohi County Community Corrections, Shakopee Prison, Union Gospel Mission, and Community Engagement through Inspirational Spark. She is looking forward to sharing her passion and mission with the world.