The Elora Centre for the Arts received a 2024 Community Grant to support their Community Connections Through Art program, which offers visual arts education to students with (dis)abilities across schools in Centre Wellington.
Led by artist and educator Eileen MacArthur, the program brings inclusive, accessible art sessions directly into classrooms at schools including Elora Public School, Centre Wellington District High School, JD Hogarth Public School, and newly expanded sites like Victoria Cross and Arthur Public Schools. With the help of classroom teachers and support staff, students participate in creative projects that explore important community themes such as Black History Month, Pride, Truth and Reconciliation, and environmental stewardship. Art supplies are provided by the Elora Centre for the Arts, ensuring that students have everything that they need to fully engage in each session.
The program is designed to help students build confidence, feel connected to their community, and express themselves in a safe space. Teachers have seen wonderful changes in the students after having attended the program, noting students who previously didn’t participate in class now showing excitement and pride in their artwork. The program emphasizes process over perfection, celebrating each student’s personal growth.
With support from the Guelph Community Foundation grant, Community Connections Through Art took place over 36 art-based sessions and reached an incredible 540 participants. Students developed artistic skills, built friendships, and contributed to school art displays, helping to raise awareness about the topics explored across the school community. This program plays an important role in creating a supportive and safe space where young people with (dis)abilities can feel seen, valued, and inspired.