VSA Frequently Asked Questions
- What is VSA?
- Why are the arts essential to learning?
- How can I get involved in VSA programs?
- What makes VSA so unique?
- Does VSA offer internships?
- Where can I learn about employment opportunities with VSA?
- How can I get involved with VSA?
- Where and when do your programs take place?
- Do you provide scholarships or grants for people with disabilities?
- How do I get my work into the VSA Online Gallery?
1. What is VSA?
VSA is a nonprofit organization that creates learning opportunities through the arts for people with disabilities. We believe that the arts are an avenue to learning and a universal language that all of us can understand.
2. Why are the arts essential to learning?
Many people still see the arts as an extra. However, the world is beginning to discover that the arts provide critical tools for learning in all academic disciplines, thus helping young people become better students today, and better employees tomorrow.
According to the College Entrance Examination Board, students who participate in the arts score nearly 100 points higher on the SAT than students who don't. In addition, the more years students participate in the arts, the higher their SAT scores. Recent studies show that students who participate in school music programs score higher in reading, mathematics, language, and overall achievement test scores. Research summaries show that a complete arts education, including dance, music and drama, contributes to improved academic performance for students with disabilities. By employing the multiple learning potentials of the arts,VSA programs cultivate lifelong educational skills and help people with disabilities contribute to the cultural and economic life of their communities.
3. How can I get involved in VSA programs?
VSA programs are implemented through a network of affiliates nationwide and in 51 countries worldwide. These organizations provide premiere arts programs in partnership with their local communities.
We invite you to participate in VSA programs in your area. Please contact your local affiliate for more information.
4. What makes VSA so unique?
VSA is the only organization in the world that brings together the arts, education, and disability communities to ensure that all people have access to the arts. VSA's remarkable work brings the power of the arts into the lives of people with disabilities through educational programs, which engage the human spirit, excite the imagination, and spark the intellect.
5. Does VSA offer any internships?
Yes!
Internships at VSA are designed for upper level college and graduate students interested in pursuing arts education, arts administration, special education, and disability fields. Responsibilities may include assisting with administration, management, and outreach initiatives. Full- and part-time internships are available in the fall, spring and summer semesters. Full-time assignments receive a monthly stipend of $650 and there is a pro-rated amount for part-time interns.
6. Where can I learn about employment opportunities with VSA?
Check our job vacancies page for a list of all current job vacancies with our national office in Washington, D.C. Our affiliate organizations in the United States and the rest of the world sometimes list their vacancies here as well.
7. How can I get involved with VSA?
There are many ways to get involved. Join our mailing list. Make a donation. Become a corporate sponsor. Volunteer at your local affiliate.
Visit the Get Involved section for more details.
8. Where and when do your programs take place?
VSA programs take place throughout the United States and around the world. Visit the Programs and Events section for more information or contact the executive director of your local VSA affiliate for information about upcoming events. Sites and times of events are subject to change.
9. Do you provide scholarships or grants for people with disabilities?
Two of our national programs, the VSA International Young Soloists Program and the VSA Playwright Discovery Program offer monetary awards to recipients. Some of our corporate partnership programs also offer financial awards. However, as a nonprofit organization, VSA does not offer financial assistance for any additional grants or scholarships.
10. How do I get my work into the VSA Online Gallery?
Each year, hundreds of talented artists with disabilities exhibit their work online at the VSA Showcase in a wide variety of genres, ranging from abstract art to realism and even to folk art. Contact artists services for information about art activities and to join the Artists Registry. This extensive registry currently contains images and information on more than 1,500 artists with disabilities. Artists services helps to connect the artists with art patrons, collectors, and exhibition opportunities across the U.S.
(F) 202-429-0868