The Achievement Center of Texas hosted its annual Special Arts Festival Saturday, March 23 at Spring Creek Church. ACT students shared their talents and gifts with festival attendees as students danced and sang and their paintings and other creations were showcased. There were also numerous opportunities for attendees to create unique art to take home.
Altrusa International of Garland was on-hand to distribute free books and other service organizations were also in attendance. There was also free face painting.
This year’s festival included raffle items and the sale of ACT calendars, keychains and more, as students are raising funds for an out-of-town trip. They hope to go to Morgan’s Wonderland, a San Antonio amusement park that is designed to be completely accessible for all individuals, including those with special needs.
The center’s curriculum includes participation in various kinds of art projects, which is beneficial to the students in several ways. They create tangible items to be proud of and share with friends and families. Additionally, creating, whether it is painting, drawing, singing or dancing, also 
boosts self-confidence and can help improve students’ communication and self-expressions skills.
The community can help by attending events as well as with cash and/or art supplies donations including:
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- Large, colored construction paper
- Multi-colored poster boards
- All colors of washable paint
- Non-toxic plaster
- Multi-colored clay
- Fat-handled paint brushes
- Velcro of various thickness
- Glitter
- Colored tongue depressors
- Colorful tissue paper
- Aluminum foil
- White T-shirts in all sizes
ACT hosts a number of events throughout the year, and according to their website, all are intended to uplift and celebrate their students with special needs.
The next event is the organization’s annual gala Saturday, April 6, 7 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. at the Atrium, 300 North Fifth Street in downtown Garland. The theme this year is “80s Rewind.” Click here for tickets.
Click here for more information on the Achievement Center of Texas.
Click here for more information on Morgan’s Wonderland.