THE THRIVE NETWORK’S ‘HERE’ EXHIBIT CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) WITH BROOKLYN DEPUTY BOROUGH PRESIDENT, DIANA REYNA

Released on: August 5, 2015, 4:03 pm (EDT)
Author: Michael Scher
Industry: Non Profit

Brooklyn, NY, August 5, 2015 -- /EPR NETWORK/ -- The THRIVE Network’s ‘HERE’ art exhibition opened to the public on Friday, July 24, 2015 and was on display until Friday, July 31, 2015, commemorating the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The awe-inspiring exhibition celebrated and nurtured the unbridled creativity of Brooklyn-based artists with disabilities who have embraced challenges and pushed boundaries in all areas of life. In showcasing these works in a formal gallery setting, The THRIVE Network and Brooklyn Deputy Borough President, Diana Reyna spoke to the importance of this comprehensive legislation and honored the remarkable talent of the artists. The overarching theme from this event, as a community, we need to change the discourse around disability from one of social stigma to one of celebration. To illustrate, ‘HERE’ honored the ADA’s rich legacy and impact, while envisioning an exciting future full of promise, opportunity and possibility beyond the present.

“The disability rights movement began with the idea of making a change for those in need: advocates, families and their loved ones. As an extension of that, The THRIVE Network continues in the legacy of this movement and the ADA to promote the independence and abilities of anyone diagnosed with a disability. ‘HERE’ was just one of many events to come, in which we aim to promote our programs, services and participants’ capabilities. Additionally, part of that legacy means we want to be a very present force within Brooklyn, especially in partnership with the Brooklyn Borough President’s Office,” said Charles A. Archer, CEO of The THRIVE Network.

“As you see around you, the walls have been given life and the ability to be seen and not become invisible, to be able to transcend what is beyond a disability and show themselves for who they are as opposed to what has been brought upon them by mere nature. I want to congratulate The THRIVE Network for its ability to be able to give voice to the people that perhaps felt voiceless,” said Diana Reyna, Brooklyn Deputy Borough President.

The THRIVE Network is a committed partner to the Arte Moose Collective, a group of artists with developmental disabilities, who formed together in 2012 with the support of AHRC. Their goal was to become a vital part of the art community, to contribute to the growing movement of socially aware art and design in America. Each of these works, created by artists with disabilities, quietly wrestles with the many dimensions of human living in the present. From depictions of historical sayings and American symbols to weavings composed of household materials and a quilted sleeping bag, these works are an observation of the people, places and objects that imbue the human existence with meaning.

ABOUT The THRIVE Network
The THRIVE Network is a 501(c)(3) based in Brooklyn that offers programs and services to individuals to help them reach their full potential. For almost 20 years, The THRIVE Network has been committed to executing with excellence, being a supportive partner and helping people in need. The THRIVE Network’s services range from full-time residential programs, developmental habilitation, community outreach, child education, social habilitation, behavioral health services and employment to family support programs. All of The THRIVE Network’s services share the same goal: enhancing the lives of those in need and helping their consumers reach their individual potential, in their own way and on their own time. The THRIVE Network’s name reflects the deep relationships and robust ecosystem of partners and agencies in which they serve. www.thethrivenetwork.org

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