Work of Art Program

The Work of Art program began with a small amount of funding for a very big idea through the Idaho Council on Developmental Disabilities Disability Mentoring Day.  That idea was to give students with disabilities actual work experience by hiring them to make art for customers.  From there, we began collaborating with the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation growing the program to what it is today. We expanded beyond Boise to Moscow, Coeur d’Alene, and even offered a virtual opportunity for students who live in some of Idaho’s most rural communities. We have also continued to grow this program through braided funding through some of our other state and federally funded programs including the Office of Special Education Programs, the Health Resources Services Administration, the State Department of Education, and the Idaho Commission on the Arts.

Since its inception in 2014, when IPUL launched the program with just one teaching artist and four students in Boise, Work of Art has grown to serve over 500 students across different regions of Idaho.

Idaho Parents Unlimited’s (IPUL) Work of Art program fills a critical gap in access to arts education and employment skills development for students with disabilities, who often face systemic barriers such as inaccessible programming and lack of tailored instruction. These barriers limit creative expression and the development of vital skills like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. The program empowers students to explore their creativity while honoring their unique strengths and abilities.

By fostering artistic growth, Work of Art also addresses economic disparities, including high unemployment rates among people with disabilities. Through marketable creative skills and an entrepreneurial mindset, students gain pathways to economic independence. Some pursue careers in arts-related industries, while others leverage their skills for entrepreneurship or freelance opportunities. The program builds confidence and equips students with practical knowledge to navigate transitions into adulthood and employment.

Work of Art also bridges gaps between the business community and individuals with disabilities. By engaging students with real-world clients, it enhances their professional skills while challenging workforce stereotypes. This dual focus builds employment readiness and encourages businesses to embrace inclusive hiring practices. Ultimately, the program demonstrates the power of the arts as a tool for self-expression, self-advocacy, and economic empowerment, strengthening independence and inclusive communities.

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