Our Advocate of the Months go above and beyond to provide inclusivity for people with disabilities. Our May Advocate of the Month, Creative Chance, creates bridges between people with and without disabilities through the power of art.

Founder and Director Amanda Taylor says Creative Chance “brings the arts to everyone”. Established in 2015, the organization originally partnered with galleries and expos to create inclusive art festivals for people of all abilities. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Creative Chance took the opportunity to pivot its focus and provide inclusive multi-day art workshops, which are now the organization’s main focus.

Creative Chance is currently partnering with the Valley Art Association to provide their workshops at the Mansion House Art Center in Hagerstown. While the art activities vary for each workshop, Amanda takes the same person-centered approach to ensure all participants benefit from every class, no matter their abilities or experience with the arts.

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“I try to meet people where they are and figure out their individual needs,” says Amanda. “I'm a big advocate about accessibility and making sure everyone feels comfortable and welcome.”

During Creative Chance’s most recent workshop, Amanda taught participants how to use a polaroid camera. Some caught on quickly to using the camera, while others needed a little extra assistance. With the help of Amanda’s personalized attention and the involvement of support staff, every person got the freedom to explore the surrounding area and take a photograph of whatever they desired. Afterwards, everyone then provided art materials to create a multimedia projects with their photos.

Amanda’s biggest goal through Creative Chance is seeing people try and succeed at something new, no matter what it may be.

“The other day, we were taking photos with the camera, and someone said, ‘I've never done this and I don't think I can do this’,” said Amanda. “But we worked together, and when the photo popped out the camera, her eyes got big and she exclaimed ‘I did it!’. She couldn't believe she did it. That made me feel good, and I thought to myself, ‘This is exactly what I want to happen!’”.

Thank you Creative Chance for being an outstanding advocate of all abilities!

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