Our story
Born from a mother's love, built for every family
Art-Tism Empowerment Foundation was founded by Joy Howard — an artist and mother whose personal journey with her son Drake showed her the transformative power of creative expression for individuals with Autism and other exceptionalities.
How We Started
Art-Tism Empowerment Foundation was founded by Joy Howard — an artist, an advocate, and a mother. When her son Drake was young and living with Autism, Joy turned to what she knew best: art. She discovered firsthand how creative expression could reach her neurodivergent son in ways that words sometimes cannot — building connection, sparking joy, and opening doors that had seemed closed.
That personal experience became a calling. Joy founded Art-Tism Empowerment Foundation on the belief that every individual with an exceptionality deserves access to the transformative power of the arts — and that no family should have to navigate that journey alone.
Today, Drake is 30 years old and remains the heart and inspiration behind everything we do. What began as one mother's love has grown into a foundation serving hundreds of participants through adaptive arts, cardio drumming, and sports programs — and we are just getting started.
As Featured On PBS
Worshipping Together
Joy Howard and her son Drake are featured in this short documentary produced for Well Beings — a national wellness campaign of WETA television, the flagship PBS station in Washington, DC. Executive produced by Bradley Cooper.
Inspired by Joy's journey with her son Drake, this story reflects the need for faith communities where every family is welcomed and able to worship together. The documentary also honors Patricia Parker, Salina Miller, and their sons, whose experiences and voices helped illuminate the importance of inclusion, understanding, and belonging.
Watch on YouTubeOur Mission
To promote inclusion and self-expression for individuals with Autism and other exceptionalities through adaptive arts, recreation, and sports programs.
Our Vision
A world where every individual's unique potential is recognized, celebrated, and given the space to flourish.
What guides us
Our Core Values
Inclusion
Every program we run is designed to welcome individuals of all abilities, backgrounds, and experiences.
Celebration
We don't just support — we celebrate. Every milestone, every creation, every breakthrough is honored.
Empowerment
We equip participants with skills, confidence, and community that extend far beyond our programs.
Community
We build bridges between participants, families, volunteers, and the broader community.
Who we are
The People Behind the Mission
Our team of dedicated staff, volunteers, and board members share one common purpose: empowering every individual to discover and share their gifts.
Founder & Executive Director
Joy Howard
Joy is an artist, advocate, and the founding heart of Art-Tism Empowerment Foundation. Her personal journey with her son Drake inspired her to build a place where every individual with an exceptionality can discover the power of creative expression — and be celebrated for exactly who they are.
Programs
Program Director
Oversees all adaptive arts, cardio drumming, and sports programming — ensuring every session is safe, joyful, and transformative for participants.
Outreach
Community Outreach Coordinator
Builds partnerships with schools, families, and community organizations to expand access and awareness of our programs.
Governance
Board of Directors
Our board brings together leaders in education, healthcare, arts, and nonprofit management to guide the foundation's growth and impact.
Board Chair
Education & Advocacy
Vice Chair
Healthcare & Disability Services
Treasurer
Finance & Nonprofit Management
Secretary
Arts & Community Development
Be Part of Something Bigger
Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word — you help us create more opportunities for individuals to discover their gifts.