"Enriching the lives of people with disabilities by helping them achieve their fullest potential” is the mission of ARI of Connecticut, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides services to people with disabilities. Founded in 1952, ARI has become the principal community agency providing services in Stamford to the disabled, services that emphasize community integration and independence, with a focus on the abilities of each individual.

The ARI Artists’ Initiative, founded by volunteer Donald Axleroad, was created to encourage and instruct individuals supported by ARI who had expressed an interest in art. The experience has been one of transformation and success for both the artists and Don. Through the collaboration between ARI and the Stamford Art Association, an exhibition titled, “Reaching for Independence Through Art,” was held recently featuring more than 50 Artists’ Initiative pieces. Motivated and eager to learn, the participants of the ARI Initiative have emerged as aspiring, talented and committed artists.