Cultural Alliance, Arc To Address Workshop

Jo Brenner, president of the Heartland Cultural Alliance (HCA), the arts council of Highlands County, is concerned that not everyone has equal access to culture.

To help remedy that situation, HCA and the Ridge Area Arc will be offering a free workshop called "Access = Success," from 1 to 4 p.m., Friday, March 27, at Grogan Center, Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 595 E. Main St., Avon Park.

"People with disabilities often are unable to take advantage of the many cultural opportunities offered here in the county," Brenner said. "We're inviting representatives from any organization that offers programs for the public. This includes museums, libraries, art galleries, theaters, festivals, church programs, concerts, hobby shows. We want people to know access has grown far beyond just building a ramp."

Staff from a statewide organization, called VSA Arts of Florida, will conduct the workshop designed to help organizations become more welcoming to persons with disabilities, especially age-related disabilities. VSA Arts of Florida is part of a national organization working to create a society where people with disabilities can learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts.

Leading the workshop will be Marian Winters, VSA executive director, and Beth Gordon, VSA cultural access coordinator. A panel of local people reflecting a variety of disabilities will also be on hand to talk about their experiences in gaining access to the arts.

Light refreshments will be available. The deadline for reservations is March 24.

Call the HCA office at 385-2828 to register or for information, or e-mail hculturala@embarq.com