ARTFUL IMPACT! of NAPERVILLE In my school years, from elementary through college, and beyond, I was always involved in the performing arts. It is one of my true passions in life to perform and entertain, and I did that by acting in stage productions and musicals, singing in choirs and small ensemble groups, and writing and performing skits with the Second City Chicago Training Center. The joy of working with like-minded creative people and talented directors to create entertaining programming is a fantastic experience full of learning and self-expression.
Deb Newman, the Chairman of the Board for Artful IMPACT! in Naperville believed the same as she watched her children grow up at the School of Performing Arts. She knew the arts made all people stronger and since the School was already growing a fledgling series of special needs classes, it seemed logical to grow the program in a bigger way. In 2013, Deb became one of the Founders of Artful IMPACT!, the community outreach wing of the School of Performing Arts, and she has served on the Board since the beginning.
Artful IMPACT! is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation established to offer creative arts experiences for all people in the Chicago Western Suburbs. “We work with abilities and possibilities not disabilities,” says Deb. “Through creative arts, children and young people with disabilities are encouraged to maximize their potential in a supportive setting that celebrates music, movement, theater and fine arts.” Deb explains that these programs have a big impact on their participants self-confidence, self-awareness and self-discipline as well as team building, listening and concentration skills, social skills and a sense of pride and achievement.
The organization’s Special Needs IMPACT! programs are open to any individual ages 9-99 with a developmental disability, and they modify their learning environment to suit each individual. Their SPECTRUM program offers youth and young adults musical theater, show choir and dance/movement classes.
Members of the community can support Artful IMPACT! by attending public performances, cheering the participants on, or attending their annual fundraisers, Cabaret in the spring and Singing for Seniors concert in the fall. Donors are always welcome. “Seeing people rise up the way they do through Artful IMPACT! makes the entire community stronger, more respectful, more hopeful and more empowered,” says Deb.
For more information on Artful IMPACT! and their programs, visit www.artfulimpact.org .
Mindy’s August Giving Inspiration: Tip a cab driver or Uber driver generously.
ABOUT THE WRITER Mindy Kyle is the owner of Be Inspired Studios and is passionate about helping people discover what brings them joy and to live a full, healthy and happy life. She has her Masters in Fine Arts degree in creative writing from DePaul University and lives in Naperville with her husband, three children and the cutest dog in the land.
