About Us.

ArtsAbility is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Delaware County, PA.

The  Mission of the organization is to train differently abled girls and women in visual and performing arts and life skills. We focus on improving their psychological and physical well-being and promoting social integration into the community.

Community outreach and connections are a central part of the mission, as are acceptance and positive values towards the population with special needs. Activities include fine arts, social/community events, educational presentations about disability, life-skills training, performing arts, partnering with and supporting other non-profits in activities related to the public good(food and clothing drives, senior citizen and disability awareness.

How ArtsAbility Came About.

Artsability developed as an offshoot of the Girls Power Social (GPS) club started by board member Reeti Patnaik when she was in 8th grade. , as a social group for differently-abled girls in her school district. Growing with the need for social connection after the girls aged out of the school programs, and based on the unique challenges expressed by the young women and their families, Artsability has grown into an organization driven by families, college students, teachers, artists, and professors in the helping professions. The programs cater to the unique challenges and needs of the population of young women with disabilities, and their desire for integration. Artsability programs include women with disabilities and their neurotypical peers, aiming to promote integration into society in an accepting and stress-free environment.

Board of Directors.

  • Ahalya Hejmadi, Ph.D.

  • Allison DeSalvo

  • Bernadine Steinmetz

  • Heather Gamber 

  • Mya McKeown

  • Reeti Patnaik

  • Sandeep Patnaik, Ph.D.