In 2007, Adelante developed the innovative Arts & Animals program wherein people with disabilities have the opportunity to practice both of these therapeutic activities in an educational and supportive atmosphere.

Art has long been a part of Adelante’s Community Options programs, offering ways for people with disabilities to express themselves through creativity. This new, more comprehensive stand alone program evolved when an experienced arts training specialist took over the program. Individuals are now provided the opportunity to explore their potential through artistic endeavors on a full-time basis. Not only do they develop creative skills, but they experience the therapeutic benefits of art.

Arts & Animals uses high-quality fine arts materials and allows participants to explore a variety of media, from different kinds of paint applications to sculpture and jewelry making, among other activities.

Each artist is given the adaptive tools and set-ups they need to succeed and has the opportunity to try different kinds of artistic applications. Some artists work independently and others choose to work on collaborative pieces with staff and other artists in the program. The result has included the development of an evolving art installation at our San Mateo location which includes multiple paintings and a collaborative mural. Many of the artists are also developing their own portfolios of pieces that they can share with their friends and family, in addition to potential art buyers.

Animals are also a key part of the Arts & Animals program. Exposure to animals has proven to help people improve their communication skills, eye contact, balance, social skills, and self confidence. All of these skills help people to live more independently and enjoy a higher quality of life.

The program currently includes several dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, and birds. The variety of animals offers a chance for people to learn about many types of animals and interact with different creature companions.

Adelante staff members use the program to work with clients on their goals using animal-assisted therapy techniques to facilitate improved communication, range of motion, strength, endurance, balance, coordination, sensory functions, and leisure skills. Grooming activities are also part of Arts & Animals. Brushing, teeth cleaning, and other daily grooming activities increase range of motion for the program participants in addition to improving small motor skills.  There is also the potential for people participating in the program to develop the vocational skills necessary to work in animal-related environments like pet stores, pet daycares, shelters, and kennels if they choose that career growth path.

The dogs work cooperatively with the program participants on agility training and other activities that benefit both the human trainers and the animals. Furthermore, the dogs help provide exercise to improve physical skills with activities like dog yoga and frequent walks.
To maintain safety of the people and animals, people participating in Arts & Animals are screened for zoophobia, allergies, asthma, immunodeficiency, respiratory disorders, poor skin integrity, and other issues.

As in all Adelante programs, there is flexibility within Arts & Animals to allow for individuals’ choices and goals. Some people work more on art and others show more interest in animal-related activities. Most enjoy a mix of both therapeutic activities, which is why the program was developed and has grown so well.
Some people take part in the program full time, Monday through Friday. Others participate in Arts & Animals just a few hours a week as part of their menu of services, working or volunteering at other times during the week.

Adelante is known for innovation, and Arts & Animals is the latest example of our range of services. The unique combination of fine arts and the diverse group of animals provides excellent educational and therapeutic activities in a supportive and creative environment.

Contact Information

For more details on this program including space availability, please contact:

Sharon Coleman

3900 Osuna Rd NE

Albuquerque, NM 87109

505.341.7135

SColeman@GoAdelante.org