(SUMMIT, NJ) -- The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (VACNJ) received a $3,500 grant from Investors Foundation last month to support an ongoing arts and healing program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at ECLC of New Jersey. This program, originally envisioned as an in-person experience, was transitioned to online because of health restrictions adopted as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. This grant will help the program continue to provide the same level of instruction and guidance virtually.
"Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can experience barriers when trying to access the arts,” said Sarah Walko, VACNJ Director of Education and Community Engagement. “For example, those with sensory processing issues can find the sounds and lights of a museum overwhelming, and students with physical disabilities may face obstacles that make navigating a venue difficult. These factors can make museum visits difficult, limiting students’ access to the arts, and its inherent benefits. Our inclusive program helps bring the art and artmaking to people with disabilities. This work is an important component of VACNJ’s mission, and this grant helps make that possible.”
Investors Bank, headquartered in Short Hills, NJ, is a full-service community bank that has been serving customers since 1926. With over $27 billion in assets and a network of more than 150 retail branches, Investors Bank delivers personalized services and products tailored to the needs of its customers. Investors Bank’s services include complete deposit, loan, and cash management products for consumers and businesses. Investors Bank is a Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.
Investors Bank created the Investors Foundation in 2005 to support the communities Investors Bank serves. Investors Foundation supports initiatives in the arts, youth development, health and human services, education, and affordable housing. The Investors Foundation works to improve the lives of its neighbors and communities across the bank’s footprint.
Major support for the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is provided in part by the Peter R. & Cynthia K. Kellogg Foundation; Wilf Family Foundations; and Art Center members and donors.
