Community-Based Projects

POP Arts

Since 2011, the Power of Performing Arts (POP Arts) has prepared children and adults of all ability types for an end-of-semester performance like no other. POP Arts is founded on the idea that everyone has a part in our show! Cast members are paired with a support cast member, who is often a volunteer or service learning student at ETSU. This inclusive program creates many opportunities for students to practice their talents and abilities in a safe, respectful, and fun environment. Cast members can truly express themselves and let their talents shine. This program is accessible to all community members.

Turning Pages Together

As an inclusive book club, Turning Pages Together meets weekly in community spaces to allow adolescents and adults with disabilities a space to read, discuss books, and socialize. This community-based program allows volunteers and students from ETSU to work closely with people with disabilities while promoting literacy development, community inclusion, and social connectedness.  

Friends of Lazarus' Programs

In 2011, Dr. Chambers rescued a little black cat named Lazarus off the streets of Johnson City. Lazarus was born with a cleft palate, so he looked a bit different than most cats. Ever since his rescue, their mission has been to promote kindness through educating children and youth how to value differences. Chambers has deveoped several community-based programs to ensure this mission is fulfilled. 

Friends of Lazarus Reading Program 

The Friends of Lazarus Reading Program allows youth to practice their literary skills in the company of the animals at the Washington County-Johnson City Animal Shelter. The children are able to socialize with one another and practice reading while the animals socailize as well. Children of all ages and reading abilities are welcome to participate in this program. 

Friends of Lazarus Job Internship Program

Openings coming soon! The Friends of Lazuras Job Internship Program is a partnership between Brother's Keeper and the Washington County-Johnson City Animal Shelter to provide inclusive job opportunities in a community-based setting. Selected interns work six hours per week with job duties that are tailored to meet the intern's needs and interests. These responsibilities range from data entry, answering phones, helping move animals around the facility, and cleaning. 

For anyone interested in enrolling in these programs, please contact us at poparts@etsu.edu. 

All of these programs are non-funded programs and are at no charge to the participants or their families. If you are interested in making a tax-deductible donation, please make checks payable to the "ETSU Foundation" and mail to: 

Attn: Dr. Cynthia Chambers
ETSU/Dept of EFSE
PO Box 70548
807 University Parkway
Johnson City, TN 37614