Able ARTS Work

Able ARTS Work was established in 1982 as a non-profit organization to provide inclusive programming for individuals with developmental disabilities & autism through the creative arts.

Using the creative arts as a tool, our primary focus is to support artists with disabilities in their creative expression through inclusive community participation. Able ARTS Work also offers a number of programs to meet the needs of the community from health & wellness, arts education to enrichment. Each outreach program values contribution, accessibility, & engagement of people of all abilities & all ages.

 Able ARTS Work aims to foster inclusion through creativity, initiative, & expression. 

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Able ARTS Work provides adult day services for people with moderate to severe intellectual & developmental disabilities & autism. Our services develop & strengthen personal, social, developmental, & vocational goals through the creative arts.

 Meet a Resident Artist of Able ARTS Work:

 

Matthew is a funny, mischievous, fun, curious, cool, chill & happy guy. Matthew’s best quality is his laugh. He enjoys the process more than the completed artwork. He enjoys tearing paper and gets a laugh out of it. He is the kind of friend who will play piano with you. He enjoys paint, if it involves sticking his whole hand in the bucket of paint. He brings really happy energy... - AAW Staff & Resident Artists 

.... receiving access to our services helps promote Matthew’s autonomy, which is incredibly important! We strive to provide as many opportunities as possible for Matthew to make choices about his world... Over the years I’ve seen subtle changes in Matthew ...him coming out of his shell... I believe that the opportunities provided to him at AAW have helped to cultivate these changes. He’s learned to be more confident, social, and his humor shines through.” -Morgan, AAW Program Manager

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Artbeat Radio (ABR) is a podcast created & led by resident artists & a platform for authentic creative expression, disability advocacy, & community connection.

 Meet the Artbeat Radio Podcast Team:

"(ABR) is a space where our artists lead the creative process, from production to storytelling, while building confidence, connection, & community.  Before ABR, there was no platform to showcase the musical & creative voices of our community. Now, we’re not just making media...we’re making change." Heidi, ABR Producer

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Our volunteer Board of Directors are passionate advocates of our mission; composed of leaders from the community with expertise ranging from law, business leadership to music therapy. 

Meet the Board Chair of Able ARTS Work:

               

"What drew me into AAW is the people ... they really live the mission. AAW gives people with disabilities a real platform & voice as artists... (AAW) says your creativity matters, your voice deserves to be heard & the world is richer because you are in it. That kind of love & impact ripples out into the world & I'm proud to be a part of making it happen." - Sarah, Board Chair  

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