An Art Form That Makes Silent Voices Heard

An Oakland nonprofit that uses art for therapy has a startling track record for helping developmentally disabled adults become prolific—and profitable—artists.

Vermont is one of the most advanced states in the country when it comes to disability inclusion and activism. The state stopped funding sheltered workshops in 2002 and chose instead to send that money to individuals to pursue any career path of their choosing by offering services such as job coaching and transportation. As a result, 61% of people with disabilities are employed within a year of receiving state support. At large, nearly 40% of adults with disabilities work alongside adults without disabilities, which is a rate considerably higher than other states.

It's often difficult for the disadvantaged portion of the population to find meaningful and rewarding work. The start-up ArtLifting takes pieces created by homeless and disabled people, finds buyers and shares the proceeds with the artists.

Camp K in Utah provides job counseling and training for teens with special needs, helping them to bridge the gap between high school and the professional work force.

Artists need cheap living costs, but their presence improves a community and the property values. The State of Colorado and private developers are creating affordable housing and work spaces for artists in neighborhoods they want to thrive.

People affected by fetal alcohol syndrome disorder are more likely to be convicted. In Alaska, one court provides convicts with FASD counselors and patience, making the court system more equitable and hoping to reduce recidivism.

Many mental illnesses appear during an individual's college years, yet few colleges have effective mental health programs. The Jed Foundation created a framework for universities to follow to address student's need such as peer outreach programs.

Milwaukee County’s mental health system put more resources in expensive emergency care rather than invest in programs that offer continual care. As a result, Milwaukee County identifies nine solutions from other cities that have had success in repairing mental health systems. Solutions include the ending of reliance on emergency care, expand community support programs, change laws, and supportive housing.

In the United States 20 percent of prisoners have a mental illness. San Antonio law enforcement and mental health workers pooled their resources and worked together to create a one-stop center for the mentally ill to keep them out of prison.

It is very difficult for people with disabilities to find work. Specialisterne is a Danish company that trains high-functioning autistic employees for IT jobs and partners with IT companies to get them hired by altering the interview process.