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 adults with disabilities.

What We Do

Theater

We offer two inclusive theater companies where neurodiverse adults ages 18+ come together to create original full-production musicals.  Our shows are full-scale productions at McDaniel College's Theater with costumes, tech, music, and more!

We also offer expressive arts classes covering a variety of themes including improvisational acting, dance, and more!

Life Skills

At our Life Skills & Social Studio in Downtown Sykesville, we support the development of life skills and social skills for neurodiverse adults through an integrated-arts model with a focus on interpersonal interaction, authentic practice, and group collaboration.
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​A key component of The Studio is going out into the community to implement our improved life and social skills.

Social

Barrier-Free offers social club outings for adults 18+ with intellectual/developmental disabilities and autism. 

These are staffed events with the goal of building friendships, integrating into society, and developing independent life skills.
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We also offer social-skill programs that provide intentional focus on developing our interpersonal skills.

Who We Serve

Barrier-Free serves neurodiverse 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

See the Ability - Art Exhibition

We invite you to our Studio Art Gallery, to celebrate the work and artistic achievements of our neurodiverse community!

This an open-house style event with a suggested $5 donation.

Thursday, September 8 • 6 - 8pm
Friday, September 9 • 6 - 8pm
Saturday, September 10 • 12 - 4pm 

Inclusive Theater Companies

Barrier-Free's Inclusive Theater registration happens only once a year!

Register today for our season, starting in September, open to actors of all abilities and experience level.

Company A - FULL, click to  join our waiting list
Company B - FULL, click to join our waiting list

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 and the Hussman Center for Adults with Autism.

Performance Photos

Join us Tuesday, April 19 at 6:15pm for a Virtual Info Session to learn about all that Barrier-Free has to offer.

Music Mike Morton will be in attendance to share about NEW Music Studio offerings!

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 encourage me to form natural, authentic relationship with my peers."

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

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Participants Myles & Mike exploring Rhythm & Beats as part of Barrier-Free's Expressive Arts programming.

By the Numbers

​4:1

Inclusion
​Ratio

2850

Hours of Programming Per Year

​96%

Participant Retention Rate*

100+

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 6-months or longer.