Artists Creating Together (ACT) Grand Traverse is a non-profit organization that provides access to the arts for adults and children with disabilities and an opportunity to learn and grow through their experiences. Dayna Ryan, District Coordinator for the Grand Traverse Area chatted with MyNorth’s Eliza Foster about ACT-GT and shared information about the organization, upcoming events and how people can become involved.
What is ACT?
Artists Creating Together (ACT) Grand Traverse, a non-profit organization, provides adaptive art experiences and cultural opportunities to people with disabilities in Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Antrim, Kalkaska and Benzie counties.
Where is ACT based? Is it only in Traverse City or is this a national organization?
ACT-GT is based in Traverse City and is the region’s largest non-profit organization serving people with disabilities in Northern Michigan.
What other organizations are you involved with?
ACT-GT collaborates with a variety of local organizations such as; The Disability Network, Black Bird Arts, The Dennos Museum Center, ATA Martial Arts Center, Third Coast Movement, The Zonta Club’s Festival of Trees event and the National Cherry Festival’s special needs day. In addition, ACT-GT works directly with special education classrooms and educators throughout the Traverse Bay Intermediate School District and the Traverse City Public Schools.
How long has this organization been in existence?
ACT-GT, formerly known as Very Special Arts, has been in the Grand Traverse region for over 17 years.
What are some upcoming activities?
On Wednesday, April 29th, 2015 ACT-GT will be hosting the annual, Arts for All Celebration at The Dennos Museum Center in Traverse City. Over 200 special needs students and their general education peers will participate in a variety of hands-on art workshops in dance, music, drama, drumming and visual art. The evening portion of the event will feature a performance showcase, complete with an after-glow party and silent auction.
How can people become involved in ACT-GT?
Volunteers, artists, participants, sponsors/donors and others are encouraged to visit our website: www.act-gt.org.
