Jesters
Sponsored by the University of Saint Francis since its founding in 1978, the Jesters is a performing group comprised of people with mild to severe developmental/physical disabilities ranging in age from 6 to seniors. Each year, the program provides 20 weeks of customized, structured movement/dance, music (instrumental/voice), theater and visual arts activities from September to March. From September to December, all the Jesters meet from 10 a.m. to noon at the North Campus building to participate in movement, dance, theatre and music activities. From noon to 2 p.m., Jesters who want to participate in visual arts activities bring a sack lunch and are transported to USF’s Rolland Arts Center building. Each spring the Jesters program culminates in an original production performed by Jesters participants. Jesters who want to participate in this performance opportunity are expected to regularly attend the Jesters program on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., January through March.
The purpose of the Jesters is to enhance quality of life for people with developmental and physical disabilities by engaging them in recreational opportunities designed to promote creative expression and positive social interaction. As a result of the program, participants achieve the following outcomes:
- Gain creative tools for self-expression
- Gain artistic skills in movement/dance, music (instrumental and vocal), theater and visual arts
- Enhance self-esteem and gain a sense of belonging
- Experience healthy social relationships
- Experience positive use of leisure time
- Enhance life skills such as focus, time management, responsibility and communication
- Experience positive interaction with volunteers, students and family members
In addition, the program provides the following opportunities and benefits to students, volunteers, caregivers and the community:
- Enhanced community involvement
- Meaningful volunteer opportunities
- Increased skills in working with people with special needs
- Enhanced positive interactions and healthy relationships with people with special needs
- Increased understanding/skills of how performing arts/visual arts activities can be used to enhance positive outcomes for people with special needs
- Respite and an informal support network for caregivers