Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month activities in Richland County continued Friday at the Richland Mall with the 4th Annual Bringing the Elements Together Art and Talent Exhibition showcasing the works of individuals supported by Richland Newhope.
The exhibition featured a wide-range of crafts and artwork, including paintings, photography, pottery, and jewelry. There were also performances by the Richland Newhope Industries, Inc. Dance Troupe, the Sparkles cheerleaders, and several vocal soloists and musicians. In addition, the event featured informational displays, simulated disability awareness activities, and artists doing demonstrations.
“People with disabilities are just like everyone else,” said Jane Imbody, Richland Newhope’s Director of Community Relations. “They’re artists or simply enjoy the creative process. They play instruments or they merely get great pleasure out of singing and dancing.
“This event really lives up to the theme for developmental disabilities awareness month, which is Ability@Work,” Imbody added. “It also provides an opportunity to involve the entire community in an awareness month activity.”
Richland Newhope’s final major activity marking Developmental Disabilities Month will be its 13th Annual Community Awareness Day on March 20. That’s when more than two dozen community leaders representing businesses and organizations in Richland County will be involved in a half-day “try on a disability” program.
In 2013, Richland Newhope (Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities) supported individuals through early intervention, preschool, adult, residential, therapy, transportation and other family support programs.
Bringing the Elements Together was sponsored by Richland Newhope, Element of Art Studio/Gallery, and the Richland Mall.
