EMPOWERING PEOPLE
WITH DISABILITIES
THROUGH ART
Introduce, Encourage and Support
A LIFE'S COMMITMENT
Ellene "Brit" Christiansen was passionate about improving the quality of life within the disability community. As a life long crusader for people with disabilities Ellene served on federal, state and local commissions and advocacy organizations. She was instrumental in founding the first Independent Living Center in Baltimore.
Although Ellene was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy at an early age, she never let the disease shadow her optimism for life. She shared her enthusiasm, philosophies and laughter with individuals with disabilities so they would never feel alone, as she once remembered herself feeling as a child.
Ellene loved children and loved sharing her enthusiasm and artistic abilities especially with children with disabilities. She felt it important for all children to create their own works of art and become inspired to think freely.
The goal of the Ellene "Brit" Memorial Fund is to continue Ellene's dream of enabling young people with disabilities to think creatively and recognize their abilities—not their limitations.
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
INSPIRING STORIES
"The impact of the Ellene “Brit” Christiansen Memorial Fund has been beyond expectations as it truly meets its goal to help young artists of different abilities create authentic artworks that they and their families can be proud of."
Vernon Fains
Baltimore County Public Schools
The Ellene “Brit” Christiansen Memorial Fund’s belief in the power of art and their dedication to enriching the lives of others has also helped us to create our new artist area complete with a kiln, in Richcroft’s new Dayhab space. We are truly thankful for their partnership and generosity.
Richcroft Inc.
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"The Ellene 'Brit' Christiansen Memorial Fund has been a wonderful partner to our school community. Through their art contest and generous grant, our students with disabilities have gained confidence, recognition, and new ways to express their creativity. Their support truly helps our young artists shine."
Maiden Choice School
OUR IMPACT
1000+
ARTISTS EMPOWERED
18
YEARS OF INSPIRATION
$400K
AWARDED
UNLEASHING CREATIVITY
Our dedication to unleashing creativity sets us apart. We are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people with disabilities, inspiring them to explore their artistic abilities and fostering a sense of limitless potential.
SUPPORTING DREAMS
We provide unwavering support to each person, offering guidance, encouragement, and resources to help them pursue their artistic aspirations with confidence.
COMMUNITY INSPIRATION
Our work extends beyond individual impact, creating a ripple effect that enriches communities and contributes to a more inclusive and supportive society for people with disabilities.
EMPOWERING ABILITIES
We are dedicated to empowering the artistic abilities within every young individual, nurturing their talents and empowering them to create a future filled with creative possibilities.
LASTING ARTISTIC IMPACT
Our initiatives aim to create lasting artistic impact, instilling values of creativity, determination, and expression that will guide and inspire the next generation of artists.
