The mission of Upstream Arts is to enhance the lives of adults and youth with disabilities by fostering creative communication and social independence through the power of arts education. We integrate individuals with cognitive, developmental, emotional, behavioral and physical disabilities in arts programming designed to develop social and communication skills vital to success in school, work and life. In our programs, local professional artists—including actors, musicians, poets, visual artists and dancers—lead arts activities that nurture self- expression, conversation, and group participation.