The Prism Project

The Prism Project is a performing arts program for children with exceptionalities.

There is a lack of programming for children with disabilities in East Central Indiana. Most programs for youth offered in our community are not physically, developmentally, or cognitively appropriate for children with disabilities. The Prism Project provides students with opportunities to learn appropriate social skills through performing arts and direct engagement with their peers. 

Many students with special needs struggle to develop and maintain social relationships. Research suggests that adults with disabilities can become isolated from society because of their challenges, which can cause social isolation and depression and other mental health struggles as they approach adulthood.

In the beginning, one-on-one assistance and individual attention was common for most performers. Because of our continued improvement to deliver instruction, the students with disabilities that we serve are at a higher level of performance and have developed lasting relationships with the friends they see every week. In fact, older students in the project have developed a social group that has lasted over the years. They go on outings together, invite each other to parties, and learn to communicate with each other through social media and other means. This has all stemmed from The Prism Project and their involvement in the arts.

Since the start of the project, each year has become more efficient. We debrief each rehearsal and learn from each performer. Depending on the number of performers, we have learned to tailor our rehearsals, behavior plans, and arts segments to fit their needs. We regularly consult with special educators, behaviorists, and other professionals. This has proven to be beneficial for the success of the program. 

Your contribution...

With your help, The Prism Project can continue to support local special needs students and their development through the arts. Your gift to the project will:

• Help fund student staff
• Help fund consultations with specialists to continue learning how to improve our rehearsals and behavior plans
• Help to purchase any new supplies the students need to be successful

We hope that you will support our project to help give local special needs students a safe place where they can learn and grow!