Joey Dowding is at the ceramic wheel, wearing a floral apron, cautiously eyeing the clay in front of him. Instructor Samantha Weiland encourages him to speed up, guiding his hands as the clay spins. Dowding’s classmates cheer him on, and despite a small mishap, everyone bursts into laughter. This is a typical day at Lincoln’s Live Yes Studios, a non-profit organization supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Recently, Live Yes faced closure after its parent organization announced the shutdown of programs nationwide. This meant an end to activities such as painting, ceramics, screen printing, and music for the 30 artists who frequented the studio weekly. The atmosphere of acceptance and freedom found at Live Yes seemed irreplaceable.
Staff members Natasha Scholz and Micah Snyder viewed this crisis as an opportunity to preserve the community they had cultivated at Live Yes. Despite the challenges, they decided to make Live Yes an independent entity within just four months. The studio had to relocate from its previous building by the end of June.
Live Yes, established in 2011 under a Philadelphia-based non-profit, flourished over the years, offering a creative haven for individuals with developmental disabilities. The impact of Live Yes on its artists is profound, providing a sense of self-expression and belonging they may not find elsewhere.
With the uncertainty surrounding Live Yes, Khan Salmon, an artist at the studio, found solace and purpose. Salmon, who is autistic, shared that Live Yes has transformed his life, providing not only artistic opportunities but also a supportive community that values individuals for who they are.
The closure threat and subsequent revival efforts shed light on the challenges faced by organizations supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in Nebraska. The state’s decision to end the waitlist for comprehensive services has sparked concerns among advocates, who fear it may complicate access to essential support.
Despite the obstacles, Scholz and Snyder were determined to keep Live Yes alive. Through considerable community support and collaboration with various individuals and organizations, they managed to secure a new location and transform Live Yes into a standalone entity. The resilience and determination displayed by the Live Yes community serve as a beacon of hope for the future.
As Live Yes transitions into a new chapter, it continues to be a place of creativity, empowerment, and community for individuals like Joey Dowding, who find joy and connection through art and music in its welcoming environment.