Hello, I'm Pat and I was one of the founding PHAME students in 1984. 

Growing up in school, I was told I couldn't be part of art classes and was not capable of making art, which I found unacceptable. There was a real lack of opportunities for us to do art and I was discouraged by my teachers. Thankfully, I had a very supportive family member who was a coach for the Special Olympics. I joined as an athlete doing track and field, soccer, baseball, swimming, etc. just to name a few, but I was still doing more sports than art. The PHAME founder noticed many of us athletes saw how meaningful sports were to us and and wondered how she could use art to help us thrive. And I was one of them! 

I've continued to come to PHAME all these years because I love being part of the performances and how we as an organization have shown that just because you have a disability, you are not limited in what you can do as an artist. Inclusion has been one of the central tenants since the beginning and that's meaningful to me. Creating art made me feel that I'm more capable than what people in school made me believe. 

For myself and other students, I've seen the fear of going onstage and performing, but thanks to the encouragement of PHAME staff, it makes us believe in our abilities. We're not different than any other performers and our disabilities are not a barrier to performing for PHAME, and should not be anywhere else either! 

Make a donation so me and my fellow PHAME performers can continue to show arts organizations just how much people with disabilities can do.

Help PHAME raise $30,000 in 30 days!

From now through June 30, we’re coming together to raise funds in support of PHAME and the incredible students, friendships, and opportunities that make our community thrive. Peer Fundraisers are at the heart of PHAME-a-thon because every supporter has a unique story to share about why PHAME matters to them. Explore our fundraiser's page to learn more about what makes PHAME such a special place for so many. Please help us reach our goal by donating today!

MISSION
PHAME empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead full, creative lives through arts education and performance.

VISION
PHAME envisions a community that champions opportunities and possibilities for all.