Non-Profit Organizations
Special Gifts Theatre (SGT) is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 2000 to provide individuals who possess a wide array of special needs (physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and learning) the opportunity to experience the joy and enrichment that theatre arts can bring. The program, though recreational in scope, is educationally and therapeutically based. All of the programs are designed to use the stage as a platform to develop social skills, speech/ language skills, and self-confidence. The theatre arts provides an excellent opportunity for enhancing an individual’s self-esteem and self-confidence; encouraging problem-solving abilities; strengthening listening, focusing, and attention skills; improving communication and fostering cooperation.
Peer mentors are an important component of the programming that facilitate acceptance, understanding, and growth. This unique creative drama experience enables personal growth while breaking down stereotypes related to disabilities within the community at large.
In the past 20 years, SGT has achieved a great impact….
12 programs in 7 locations
2,673 students & peer mentors ages 6-46
32,518 audience members
90% of students improved their self-image and confidence
80% of students improved their social skills
85% of students demonstrated growth in a parent identified goal
90% of peer mentors increased their disability awareness and acceptance Gifts Theatre’s programs foster self-confidence, social, speech and language skills in individuals with disabilities. We work as a community to use educational and therapeutic techniques with the stage as the platform integrating creativity and fun.
Vision
A world where all people with disabilities are valued, included, and accepted.
Mission
Through the performing arts, we work collaboratively to create inclusive and transformative experiences for individuals with disabilities to fully engage in the world.
Core Values
All people are creative, resourceful, and whole.
We make a difference in the lives of everyone we touch.
We do it one individual at a time.
Everything is done with respect and compassion.
We celebrate success at every turn.
