VSA of Loudoun is the county organization on arts and disability. The organization provides a forum through which persons of all abilities are able to express and explore their artistic potential. Since its inception in 1989, VSA has served more than 300 artists, 75 percent of whom are diagnosed with challenges including Down’s Syndrome, Williams Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Delay, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and severe mobility challenges. Participants act, sing, dance, draw, sculpt and create side by side with people of all ages and abilities. The focus is placed on each participant’s ability, their strengths and gifts, using the arts to develop their creative talents. Though strictly an entertainment organization, VSA of Loudoun believes that the arts are inherently therapeutic. While having fun participants are improving their social and communication skills, working on decision making skills, and learning to take direction and maintain focus while in an encouraging and accepting environment.