Performing Arts Center of Northern Arizona, Inc. www.pac-naz.org
Special Needs Learners
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"Our first journey is to find that special place for us..." Earl Nightingale

In addition to providing top-notch performing arts education, we strive to create a prevention program for at risk, abused, medically fragile, physically or mentally challenged while, at the same time, offering a life changing camp experience in the area of performing arts.  We believe that positive results lead to lifestyle changes and overall growth in each learner. 
By having programs focused on the individual the students may realize very positive results--free from disabling affects of physical and emotional abuse they may be experiencing in their own situations.  It is a collective energy and commitment that produces these positive results. 
We draw upon broad resources that depend on the actions of businesses, government agencies, medical communities, educators, other non-profits, and a community attitude of acceptance and support.
All businesses are welcome to become supporting partners in this worthwhile endeavor.  All gifts are tax-deductible.  Donors are recognized.  We constantly seek funds to accomplish the very best environment to ensure each learner's greatest success.
A scholarship program is in place.  Our goal is that no Special Needs Learner and Health Care Provider would ever be turned away due to lack of  tuition. 
The scholarship finance campaign is on-going. 
 ObjectiveTo create, develop and implement a winning strategy for statewide outreach, education and awareness, in turn, garnering increased and community support and participation.   

Situation Analysis

Programs for individuals with special needs are lacking in the state of Arizona.  The services provided by Performing Arts Center of Northern Arizona (Pac-Naz) are unique and, unlike their counterparts, are able to offer a wide range of valuable programs addressing the multiple needs of disabled and special need individuals throughout our state. Pac-Naz has determined several overreaching needs at this time.  These are:
 
  • Generate awareness and support, through public relations, media and outreach, of the Pac-Naz development project
  • Generate awareness, support and participation in the Pac-Naz pilot programs at various locations throughout the Valley
  • Facilitate information delivery to people in Arizona with special needs and their families.
  • Develop a coalition of support for the Pac-Naz Special Needs Project, reigning in both public and private
 We propose to work with churches, schools, neighborhood groups and other organizations to help spread the word through newsletters, gatherings and one-on-one interaction with members.  In addition to working with smaller groups, we would explore possibilities with larger nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations that serve the target community. 

Similar to grassroots outreach, grass-tops outreach emphasizes alliances with the civic-based organizations and other local community leadership. 

We understand that media relations consist of generating opportunities to place accurate and timely stories about the Pac-Naz campaign in appropriate media outlets.  The purpose of media relations is to create and sustain a beneficial environment for the education and outreach efforts supporting the project that result in the involvement and support of target populations. 

 Accurate news stories can be more effective than advertising because their publication or airing implies the endorsement of the particular media outlet – often a trusted source of information in the community.  Placement efforts can be bolstered with press releases, interviews, editorials, photo opportunities, and media-driven events.  In addition, we propose to evaluate the costs and benefits of engaging identifiable and credible spokespeople who can drive media – not to mention program participation interest. 

 These are everyday people with special needs, many whose lives have been touched by a physical or mental disability.  There is no earth-shattering immediate crisis, or life-threatening urgent demand that sparks a surge of assistance.  These fellow Arizonans live quietly and make up a large portion of our neighborhoods and communities.  Performing Arts Center of Northern Arizona (Pac-Naz) has developed a focused program for this often “forgotten population”. There appears to be rather general agreement on the basic intellectual needs of humans.  Some of these include: 
  • A need for challenging experience at their own level