Partners in Arts Participation

Courage Center and IFP continued to develop and strengthen their relationship to help better serve participants with disabilities. The artists instructing classes have become more skilled at being aware of the instructional needs of the participants served in the classes. This will be a benefit to all students they will encounter in future classes either at the Courage Center or through IFP classes. Several of the participants discussed possibly attending classes held at the IFP facility. The IFP facilities are accessible to individuals with physical impairments. 2: Participants were exposed to a new option for the use of their leisure time through the use of video and or digital photography. Participants also gained experience using computers to edit their work. This helps them develop comfort and expertise using a computer. Participants became aware of accessible transportation available to access the community and integrate into activities with others in the larger community. Participants became aware of other options available in the community through trips conducted during the classes. This was evaluated by discussions with the participants. Recreation Therapy staff observed the increased skill level of the participants to be able to independently pursue using cameras and computers following the course. Staff also observed the participants utilizing the accessible transportation on their own to access the community and other cultural events.