Able ARTS Work was established in 1982 as a non-profit organization to provide inclusive programming for individuals with developmental disabilities & autism through the creative arts.
Using the creative arts as a tool, our primary focus is to support artists with disabilities in their creative expression through inclusive community participation. Able ARTS Work also offers a number of programs to meet the needs of the community from health & wellness, arts education to enrichment. Each outreach program values contribution, accessibility, and engagement of people of all abilities and all ages.
Able ARTS Work aims to foster inclusion through creativity, initiative, & expression.
We provide adult day services for people with moderate to severe intellectual & developmental disabilities & autism through:
Meet a Resident Artist of Able ARTS Work:
"I feel confident & comfortable here at Able ARTS Work. I have learned so many skills from the many different classes. When I do Noise Band, I get to play the keyboard & sing - which is my favorite thing to do. It makes me feel elated & overjoyed. I love performing but love it when I get to do it with my peers. When we record in Noise Band, I love making the arrangements ... choosing what instruments should be in it or not to make it sound the best it can be. I really like the whole kit & caboodle. I want to be here until I am 103!" - Kristin, AAW Resident Artist
The Able ARTS Work gallery features original artwork & handmade items designed by resident artists. Our gallery was founded in the spirit of social inclusion, entrepreneurship & enterprise; to provide a creative space for artists, a place to be gainfully employed, & advocate for learning & personal growth to benefit the greater community.
Through the AAW Gallery, artists are provided :
Meet the Artists & Staff of the AAW Gallery :
"Exhibitions is an important part of the work we do at Able ARTS Work... we provide artists meaningful opportunities to be celebrated & earn commission showcasing work in our gallery or in community spaces & galleries. We create inclusive spaces that breakdown barriers in the arts & foster community through showcasing our resident artists alongside community artists. Many emerging artists have their first exhibition experience with us, gaining confidence & exposure, leading them to future opportunities in the arts." - Jennifer, Exhibitions Coordinator
The primary mission of Able ARTS Work is to provide lifelong educational, vocational, and therapeutic services through the creative arts for people of all abilities and all ages in an environment of warmth, encouragement, and inclusion.
Organization name
Able ARTS Work
Tax id (EIN)
95-3658291
Operating Budget
Large ($1,000,000+)
Mission Category
Arts & Culture, Education, Individuals with Disabilities, Social Services, Physical Health & Wellness
City Council District
District 8
Address
3839 Atlantic AvenueLong Beach, CA, US
Hawthorne, CA, US
San Diego, CA, US