I’ve been invited by an Oakland elementary school to create a show aimed at educating children on disability awareness and inclusivity. As an educator, puppeteer, and storyteller, I am grateful for the opportunity to facilitate understanding and empathy for both physical and developmental disabilities among children and animals. Children with disabilities are significantly underrepresented in today’s media and entertainment, despite estimates indicating 1 in 7 children in California have special healthcare needs. There is a notable lack of education and funding for disability awareness within the school system. My goal is to bring attention to these important issues and uplift the diverse spectrum of children with disabilities.

Initially, I will perform the show live at the school and produce a professional video to reach a broader audience nationwide.

My goal is to raise $5,500 and begin fabrication by November 1st to support the creation, production, and performance of this show. With the necessary funding, I aim to complete the following phases by December 19th 2024.

**Phase 1:** Building puppets

**Phase 2:** Creating sets

**Phase 3:** Rehearsals

**Phase 4:** Performance

Your support will help bring this vital education to schools and communities both locally and nationally. You can make a difference by donating to this project!

Rewards for donors include:

- A live show for local donors (Date and location TBD)

- A Zoom show for National and international donors(Date and location TBD)

Thank you so much for your consideration and donation and for sharing with friends and family to help me spread the word! Please stay tuned to this fundraising page for live updates on the project.

For more information about me and my work:

Website: www.emilybutterfly.com

IG handle: https://www.instagram.com/ms.emilybutterfly/

https://www.instagram.com/ms.emilybutterfly/

YouTube: @Ms.EmilyButterfly https://www.youtube.com/@Ms.EmilyButterfly