By Michael Dergar, Academy of Special Dreams Foundation
Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico—In a groundbreaking event that will be remembered for years to come, the Academy of Special Dreams Foundation, alongside local artists Michael Dergar, Dory Perdomo, and Zoila Fernández Fernández, took historic steps toward creating a more inclusive and accessible community for individuals with disabilities.
“This was an unforgettable and truly inclusive event that brought hope, mobility, and opportunity to the special needs community in the arts. Together, we celebrated unity, generosity, and progress with impactful initiatives that will leave a lasting legacy,” said Michael Dergar, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all involved.
Key Achievements
1. Mobility for Seniors:
Wheelchairs were donated to seniors with disabilities, providing them the freedom and independence they deserve. This effort addressed a critical need for assistive devices, as noted by the World Health Organization, which highlights the transformative role of wheelchairs in enhancing personal mobility and dignity.
2. Supporting Emerging Talent:
Young, emerging artists received scholarships in the arts, empowering them to pursue their creative dreams. These scholarships symbolize the Foundation’s commitment to fostering talent and ensuring that art is a space for all.
3. Accessibility for All:
The inauguration of an elevator at the Galería Ángela Peralta marked a significant milestone in making cultural spaces accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability. This achievement underscores the belief that art and culture should be inclusive to all members of society.
A Celebration of Inclusion
The event also featured Sueños Especiales, an inclusive art exhibition that showcased the incredible work of local and emerging artists. This exhibition was a testament to what can be achieved when compassion and a shared vision of inclusion bring people together.
Michael Dergar summed up the day’s impact: “We made history today!”
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
This historic event was made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors such as BAUPRES, The Alhambra, and the Alhambra Rotary Club. Their contributions have not only increased public awareness of inclusion but also provided life-changing wheelchairs to individuals in need.
The Academy of Special Dreams Foundation emphasized the significance of mobility as a cornerstone for inclusion, citing data from the World Health Organization:
- 10% of the global population, or about 650 million people, have disabilities.
- Of these, 10% require a wheelchair, yet only a fraction have access to one.
“Your dedication and generosity are invaluable. You help create an inclusive society where everyone can thrive as part of a community and a loving family,” the Foundation shared in a heartfelt message to its supporters.
Looking Ahead
The Academy of Special Dreams Foundation, along with Michael Dergar, Dory Perdomo, and their supporters, remain committed to building a world where inclusion is the norm. This historic event in Mazatlán is just one step forward in their journey toward fostering mobility, opportunity, and unity for all.
As Dergar expressed, “Here’s to many more steps forward for our community!”
