What is New Horizons?

New Horizons is a musical theatre performance group comprised of members ages 16+ with disabilities (ie. down’s syndrome, autism, mild cognitive disability, ect.). Led by an occupational therapist with a background in musical theatre, the program promotes social engagement and works on building social skills in the context of working on a musical production. This provides the perfect social environment to work as a team, build friends, and in the process build self-esteem and confidence.

Over the past 13 years, New Horizons has continued to expand. The program grew out of a collaboration between Loyola University’s Speech and Language Pathology program, HCPSS, and CCTA.  CCTA has kept the program alive and it has grown to more than a class, but a community. A community that provides friendship, inclusiveness, and a sense of belonging. Our New Horizons community extends beyond the participants - it also includes the parents/caregivers. One of the parents shared that, “New Horizons has been an outstanding experience. She loves musical theatre and performing, and New Horizons gives her a supportive and fund environment to engage in her passion…” New Horizons meet one night a week and due to high community interest (35+ participants), there are currently 2 classes that rehearse consecutively for 50 minutes each.

Other Ways to Give

Check out our Peer to Peer Donation drive by following this link to our campaign for New Horizons.