Grace Fisher Foundation

Our mission is to empower individuals with disabilities by providing free access to music, art, dance, and other artistic programs in our state-of-the-"art" facility, The Inclusive Clubhouse. We are dedicated to fostering an accessible and welcoming space that promotes community inclusion, education, creative expression, and self-discovery. Through the arts, we aim to enrich lives, celebrate diversity, and build a vibrant community where everyone can explore their potential and connect with others.

The Grace Fisher Foundation (GFF) was founded in 2016 by Grace Fisher, an artist, composer, advocate for inclusive arts, and a woman living with quadriplegia. Over nine years, GFF has grown from a small local initiative meeting in parks and community centers into a leading nonprofit in Santa Barbara County dedicated to ensuring individuals of all abilities can express themselves creatively. In 2023, GFF opened the 3,000 square foot Inclusive Arts Clubhouse, welcoming 10,000 children and adults each year—many living with paralysis or neurodiverse needs—to explore music, visual arts, and performance, often for the first time. In 2024, Grace Fisher received the Kennedy Center’s Emerging Innovative Artist Award in recognition of her inspirational art. Field trips with 3 local school districts where Grace presents her art and music through short films and video, and then as the students “paint with their mouths” in an ongoing initiative, which

is an impactful and inspirational experience for able-bodied students

In 2025, GFF became an independent 501(c)(3) and launched Santa Barbara’s first Sensory Arts Room for neurodiverse individuals—further proof of our ability to design and deliver groundbreaking programming. Our staff includes licensed professionals and experienced adaptive-arts educators supported by trained volunteers. Together, they deliver music therapy, visual arts workshops, inclusive performances, and community events tailored to diverse needs. Our team ensures every program is safe, accessible, and impactful while cultivating confidence, joy, and belonging for participants.

GFF’s capacity is strengthened by formal collaborations with regional residential programs, the Down Syndrome Association, Mosaic Therapy Collective, Autism Embrace, Multiple Sclerosis Association, and spinal cord injury rehabilitation providers. These partnerships expand our reach, expertise, and access to participants who have traditionally faced barriers to the arts. Through initiatives like dance parties, karaoke nights, and interactive arts workshops, we create opportunities for self-expression, skill development, and social connection, while leveraging partner resources to enhance program quality.

With nearly a decade of proven results, a nationally recognized founder, specialized staff, and robust partnerships, GFF is uniquely positioned to carry out the proposed project. Our deep understanding of adaptive arts, our infrastructure for accessibility, and our track record of innovation ensure successful program delivery. Every initiative reflects our core belief that the arts are transformative—capable of unlocking potential, bridging communities, and enriching lives for people of all abilities. With nearly a decade of experience, robust partnerships, and a proven track record of innovation, the Grace Fisher Foundation is uniquely positioned to deliver groundbreaking, no-cost music, arts, dance, and healing arts programs.