Welcome to Ellene "Brit" Christiansen Memorial
“To introduce, encourage, and support the artistic development of young people with disabilities”
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 founded the first Independent Living Center in Baltimore. To make a contribution, click here.
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 founded 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 this memorial is to continue Ellene's dream of enabling young people with disabilities to think creatively and recognize their abilities—not their limitations.