(SUMMIT, NJ) -- The Elks Lodge of Summit recently donated $2,500 to the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (VACNJ) in support of its partnership with ECLC (Education, Careers & Lifelong Community) of New Jersey. The gift will fund VACNJ's work with ECLC's PRIDE program, which helps adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities gain life skills with a focus on activities that help in one of four areas: social appropriateness, independent living, work enhancement skills, and community participation.
At the Art Center, ECLC PRIDE participants engage with current exhibitions, receive guided art instruction, and create individual artworks alongside experienced teaching artists. These sessions intentionally foster social connection and support participants' social and emotional well-being.
"The Elks Club's generous donation will allow us to continue providing high-quality, once-a-week programming to our friends at ECLC," said Rachel Aponte, Director of Education & Community Engagement. "The goals of this program align seamlessly with the mission of the Art Center, and this meaningful contribution from the Elks, will help us continue this important work."
For more than 150 years, the Elks have worked towards their mission of inculcating the principles of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. They have done so by supporting numerous charitable causes, providing scholarships to students in need, offering a local meeting place for the community, and serving as a place for like-minded individuals to meet and socialize in a relaxed setting. Visit summitelks1246.org for more information.
For more than 90 years, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey has been exclusively dedicated to viewing, making, and learning about contemporary art. Recognized as a leading non-profit arts organization, the Art Center's renowned Studio School, acclaimed exhibitions, and educational outreach initiatives serve thousands of youths, families, seniors, and people with special needs annually.
The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is located at 68 Elm Street in Summit, NJ. Gallery hours: Monday–Thursday, 10:00am–8:00pm; Friday & Saturday, 10:00am–5:00pm; and Sunday, 11:00am–4:00pm. Please call 908.273.9121 to confirm holiday hours.
Major support for the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is provided by the Wilf Family Foundations; New Jersey State Council on the Arts; and the Art Center community of supporters.
