InReach
Key Personnel:
Chief Executive Director: Lori Gougeon
Email: info@inreachnc.org
Development Director: Kelly Perez
Email: kperez@inreachnc.org
ABOUT:
Since 1974, InReach has provided unique programs and services to individuals (ages 4 years and up) with developmental, intellectual, or other disabilities in the Charlotte community. InReach celebrates arts and education in an inclusive environment welcoming people of all housing, family, education, and ability backgrounds. Both youth and adults are empowered to achieve their dreams through community and one-on-one support. Becoming more self-sufficient is one of the goals for those joining InReach. Personal connections are built in order to help those with disabilities achieve employment goals and find ways to engage in the passions they enjoy. While not an arts organization, InReach has relationships with the Charlotte Ballet, Clayworks, and YMCA to provide classes. InReach also offers its own classes in art, music therapy, and independent living.
Among their programs, Troupe 801 is a puppeteer troupe that creates characters and performs shows depicting those who have disabilities and how their differences impact reactions in society. The differences highlight how uniqueness is a trait that makes everyone special. The puppets are made and puppeteered by people who face the same disabilities which allows them to share their experiences and foster an inclusive and welcoming environment through performance. Puppeteers learn the craft of puppet making and performing. Differences are celebrated in the troupe, and they work to provide education to both the audience and puppeteers in their show, “Barnyard News.”
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