Buckingham Foundation wrapped up 2016 with a $1M gift to the Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay and then kicked off the new year with a $5K donation to Studio OTB to expand their ceramics program.
The $5,000 grant helps the art studio purchase an adaptive pottery wheel that is accessible for all participants in the program. An adaptive pottery wheel can be used for any rehabilitation program and is wheel chair accessible. With a variable speed power wheel and frame that is designed in coordination with leading rehabilitation and therapy experts, it’s design makes throwing possible for those who otherwise would not have the opportunity to do so.
Studio OTB is a community creative arts program for Outside the Box, a support system of more than 250 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With a goal to invest in the opportunity for individualized growth, OTB has three distinct lines of service including curriculum based and customized Employment Services along with Studio OTB’s arts program.
Individuals who are enrolled in Studio OTB are able to express themselves, develop artistic skills and discover new interests with the support of collaborations between artists with or without developmental disabilities. The art focused groups are led by two talented artists who have developed a customized curriculum that teaches social, daily living, communication, and fine motor skills through fine art lessons.
Buckingham Foundation’s generous donation not only furthers art education for those who are involved in Studio OTB’s activities, but also gives them the opportunity to meet others and improve their social skills, develop communication skills for more effective verbal and nonverbal interaction, and furthers their personal interests in the arts.
You can purchase a variety of work created by these talented artists at their Studio Gallery, which is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information on how to get involved with Outside the Box, visit their website. You can learn about employment and volunteer opportunities as well as apply to become a participant in their numerous programs.
Buckingham Foundation is the philanthropic partner of Buckingham Companies, a full-service real estate firm based in Indianapolis. Over the past 10 years, Buckingham Foundation has made an impact in the communities where our residents and employees live. Want to join the mission? Donate today to be a part of our next success story!
