VSA Arts Worldwide

VSA arts is an international, nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where all people with disabilities learn through, participate in and enjoy the arts.

VSA arts works with affiliated organizations nationwide and in over 60 countries worldwide. Within the United States, VSA arts programs are conducted by a network of VSA arts state organizations with their own 501-c-3 status or in collaboration with an affiliated organization. Organizations within the VSA arts network maintain strong connections to the home office in Washington, D.C. in a relationship that includes funding, participation in conferences, networking, the use of resources, technical assistance and programming, as well as sharing best practices and strategies among peers. Domestic organizations apply annually for affiliation and funding in a process designed to ensure that they meet with fiscal and operational standards and as a way to gauge and encourage growth in all areas. International affiliates do not receive funding from VSA arts.

More About Our National Network

VSA arts programming and initiatives are guided by four essential principles:

  1. Every young person with a disability deserves access to high quality arts learning experiences.
  2. All artists in schools and art educators should be prepared to include students with disabilities in their instruction.
  3. All children, youth, and adults with disabilities should have complete access to cultural facilities and activities.
  4. All individuals with disabilities who aspire to careers in the arts should have the opportunity to develop appropriate skills.

VSA arts is committed to driving change - changing perceptions and practice, classroom by classroom, community by community, and ultimately society.

Visit the VSA arts website.