Who We Are

​Barrier-Free is a non-profit, disability service organization that provides inclusive art, self-advocacy, and social programming to the community for neurodivergent adults.

What We Do

Who We Serve

Barrier-Free serves neurodivergent adults 18+, including those with intellectual/developmental disabilities and autism.  We serve individuals and families from Maryland, Pennsylvania, & Virginia.

Locations

Barrier-Free's The Life Skills & Social Studio is located in Historic Downtown Sykesville, Maryland.
Inclusive Theater Company rehearsals are held in Westminster, Maryland.
Expressive Arts classes vary in location.

"Awesome experience for Marcel! As a Mom I believe that this is the best group in Maryland for our Special-need Adults like Marcel."

- Karen Blanchard, mother of Marcel, a Barrier-Free participant

Giving Tuesday November 28th

Tuesday, November 28th is Giving Tuesday. Join us in raising funds to keep Barrier-Free programs affordable and accessible for all families.

Giving Tuesday occurs the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It is touted as a "global generosity movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world."

This year, consider making a donation to Barrier-Free to support our mission of inclusivity.

Giant Community Bag

Support our mission with a $2.50 purchase! For every Community Bag sold at the Giant Food location (405 N Center St Westminster, MD 21157) in November, $1 will be automatically donated to Barrier-Free!

Not local? Stop by ANY Giant Food store, purchase a Community Bag, and follow the instructions on the tag to have your donation directed to Barrier-Free.

Special thanks to Giant Food Westminster, for selecting us to be this month’s benefitting organization for their community bag program.
Happy Shopping! ​

Raising Funds to Support Inclusive Theater

Get ready for a flavorful evening that's also for a fantastic cause! Our Inclusive Theater Companies are gearing up for an exciting season, and we need your support to make it extraordinary.

Join us for three upcoming delicious fundraisers!
Thursday, December 7th from 4-8pm at Noodles & Co. in Eldersburg

The best part? When you dine with us, a percentage of your total purchase will be generously donated to Barrier-Free. Whether you opt for mobile or in-restaurant orders, you're contributing to the magic of inclusive theater!

Community Engagement

Barrier-Free is grateful for our community partners that support our mission of inclusivity!  Check out some recent partnerships with horticulture therapist, Hannah, of Botanigal, Tidal Salt, Integrative Dental Wellness, MAKE Studio, Town of Sykesville, Carroll Arts Center, and the Hussman Center for Adults with Autism.

Performance Photos

Enjoy the photo galleries from The Great Casino Caper & Check Matey, performed March 2023 at McDaniel College Theater.
​Photo Credit: Mort Shuman

Barrier-Free's Impact
"My favorite part of Barrier-Free is that it is an inclusive and supportive environment that allows me to learn new skills interactively with peers and in my community. Barrier-Free also encourages me to form natural, authentic relationship with my peers."

- Aaron Leonard, Barrier-Free Studio member, actor, and social clubber

By the Numbers

​4:1

Inclusion
​Ratio

2850

Hours of Programming Per Year

​96%

Participant Retention Rate*

120+

Participants served annually
*Retention rate defined as- participants who attend any Barrier-Free program for a two-week trial and remain enrolled for the remainder of the program OR participants who attend The Life Skills & Social Studio 1x per week for a period of 3-months or longer.