CHARITY SPOTLIGHT Most Surprising Thing About the Organization Striving to be inclusive, not exclusive, WHAM not only teaches traditional art classes to adults and children but also provides a variety of outreach programs to underserved populations. “One of the surprising things about WHAM is we touch so many people and do so much on such a small budget,” Whitlock said. WHAM provides free art classes and lunch three times a month to veterans in Surprise, Peoria and Goodyear. Its classes for children and teens are signature programs as well. WHAM’s adaptive programs are popular with those who have disabilities, and classes for crime victims and victims of sex trafficking offer a safe space for healing and expression. WHAM has also developed a literary arts department that hosts an Open Mic Poetry Night once a month, inviting the public of all ages to read their own or other poetry. Program Highlight WHAM is one of the few art centers where the public can come to learn and work in clay. “Several professional potters teach and keep our fully equipped clay studio in excellent condition,” Whitlock said. Thanks to their efforts, WHAM has been making handmade clay bowls for 10 years and selling them during the holidays. Profits from the yearly Bowls of Hope event go to seven West Valley charities. WHAM also has a WHAM on WHEELS trailer filled with art supplies that it takes to city events to offer art experiences to children. Recent Challenges Funding for programs is an ongoing challenge, with significant cuts in State funding coming next year. “As a nonprofit, we struggle to pay for all that is necessary to provide the arts,” Whitlock said. Future WHAM is currently constrained by space and needs more for its classes and to serve the community at large. A building campaign will be underway this fall to help the organization grow and provide a future of more significant outreach and impact. “I’m looking to the future with more extensive facilities to continue growing and providing art to our West Valley communities,” Whitlock said. To learn more, visit wham-art.org . No matter age or ability, WHAM offers classes to support the community with many different mediums. WHAM provides a friendly place to share the creativity that abounds in our local communities. 62 | FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE

Ability360 is Arizona’s largest Center for Independent Living offering programs and services to empower people with disabilities to achieve or continue independent lifestyles within the community. Learn more about how you can support our mission as a Valley nonprofit. Ability360 is eligible for the Arizona State Tax Credit Program. Your donation may qualify for a dollar for dollar credit. DONATE TODAY! Ability360.org/Donate Supporting the Independence O F P E O P L E W I T H D I S A B I L I T I E S S I N C E 1 9 8 1