H.I. = Having InterDependence. Live Interactive Arts Workshops with Acting, Improv & Movement Games for people with and without disability
Here are some parts of H.I. Workshops
Indy - Depend - InterDepend; 20 sec video excerpt. Gestures we do at every H.I. class [YouTube link]
Watch this 20 seconds of HI arts workshop (with light music) [Facebook link]
Watch a short bit of a family group at HI workshop (with loud music) [Facebook link]
2. Who did your project inform, help, influence or impact? (UCEDD, individual, community, state) How?
from Jacob E., Self-Advocate "What impact has doing these workshops had on you?" All in all, I've become better at speaking, listening, and adapting with these workshops. It took a long time to get me comfortable in front of crowds, but these workshops allow me to dig deep within myself for different communication methods. When I'm spreading the joy, I feel it benefits the attendees AND me. These opportunities are important, not just for me, but for those with disabilities who wish to broaden their skills.”
from Kelly W., Parent – “It is very important for my son Sean to be able to actively participate in his community as so many great experiences include novel elements - like new people, new settings. Typically by the time Sean relaxes enough to actively participate, the opportunity has passed. If he can open up sooner, and be part of activities that have new aspects, he will have so many more opportunities. Thanks for this workshop.”
from DJ, Participant – “I felt more comfortable doing the interactive activities, sharing and dancing than I would have with a fully neurotypical group. Illustrating the concept of interdependence through activities where we had to depend on others was a great reminder that we all have value and something important to contribute.”
3. Why did you choose to work on that project(s)?
I am a person with a disability, as well as an actor and dancer. Through improv and movement I find ways to explore to Be human, to accept who I am, and thus to accept others. This project combined what I enjoy doing with the project for the Fellowship.
4. What did you gain from being a Diversity Fellow?
5. How will this experience impact your education or career decisions?
I now have a Live Interactive Arts Workshop for sale. I am expanding my consultation work. Arc thrift stores has offered to buy this Workshop for me to support their internal leadership program called arc University.
6. What are your future goals? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
Current goals include:
Future goals include:
7. What recommendations do you have for other Fellows?
Jump in. It's a confusing ball of wax, but such is life. Mentors help guide us.
Find ways to engage with community partners and self-advocates in your project and in your work.
Connect with AUCD and other Fellows.
Continue as a lifelong learner and join other life learners. Some of these can be found among UCEDD, AUCD, LEND, other community leadership opportunities and even among artists.
Find a variety of perspectives and voices to provide input into your projects and work.
End-user/stakeholder co-designers as teammates makes our outcomes so much richer and your reach so much further. Build your team. Lean on your team.
Conclusions;