The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in conjunction with the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs, are proud to announce a new Arts for ALL Abilities (AAA) program in response to the growing need for increased inclusivity and artistic expression for persons with disabilities, as part of Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ “Equity and Inclusion” initiatives, through his 2023 Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County.”
“On behalf of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, I am happy to present this free transformative program, which aims to provide a platform for County residents with disabilities to showcase their artistic talents, while also fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for all abilities,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Art knows no boundaries and I believe that every dollar invested in the arts produces a significant return in measurable and immeasurable ways. This is a great opportunity for our residents to express themselves as we create a canvas of inclusivity, where differences become strengths and art becomes a universal language. I encourage anyone wishing to participate to register today.”
According to the Rutgers University Disability Profile, Union County is home to over 50,000 residents living with disabilities, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that persons with disabilities are significantly more likely to experience mental distress. Arts for ALL Abilities is a response to these challenges and aims to bring art into the lives of persons with disabilities, offering them a chance to express themselves, learn new skills, and connect with their communities.
Classes are free but pre-registration is a requirement as space is limited per session. To register for a session, please visit www.ucnj.org/arts-for-all/. Sessions will be held in November and December with the following schedule:
Wednesday, November 15th: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
PROCEED Family Success Center
1122 East Grand Street, Elizabeth
Family Canvas – Thanksgiving Theme (All ages)
Monday, November 27th: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
2nd Street Youth Center Family Success Center
200 Plainfield Avenue, Plainfield
Children – Abstract Painting (Under 14)
Tuesday, November 28th: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
2nd Street Youth Center, Family Success Center
200 Plainfield Avenue, Plainfield
Family Canvas – Christmas Theme (All ages)
Monday, December 4th: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
PROCEED Family Success Center, Elizabeth
1122 East Grand Street, Elizabeth
Children – Canvas Winter Wonderland (Under 14)
Monday, December 11th: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hillside High School – Family Success Center
1100 Woodruff Avenue, Hillside
Adults – Pour Paint (15 and up)
Monday, December 18th: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hillside High School – Family Success Center
1100 Woodruff Avenue, Hillside
Adults – Abstract Painting (15 and up)
For more information on this program and/or about any other special needs programs hosted by Union County, visit www.ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn, or contact the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs at (908) 527-4807 or email opdsn@ucnj.org.