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Special Gifts Theatre (SGT) is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 2000 to provide children and teens who possess a wide array of special needs (physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and learning) the opportunity to experience the joy and enrichment that theatre arts can bring. It was designed to motivate and honor the creative spirit in each individual. The program, though recreational in scope, is educationally and therapeutically based. This unique creative drama experience enables personal growth while breaking down stereotypes related to disabilities to the community at large. Theatre arts provides an excellent opportunity for enhancing an individual's self-esteem and self-confidence; encouraging problem-solving abilities; strengthening listening, focusing, and attention skills; improving communication and fostering cooperation. How Did It All Begin? Susan (Susie) B. Field, Founder and Executive Director of Special Gifts Theatre, received a B.S. in Occupational Therapy from the University of Illinois in 1977. After initially developing an Early Rehabilitation Program and a General Medicine and Surgery Program for Alexian Brothers Medical Center, Elk Grove Village, IL, she continued practicing Occupational Therapy for 25 years. While raising three children, Susie taught a Medical Ethics and Health Science course on TV Channel 20 for Chicago City Wide Colleges and provided home healthcare to shut-ins who required occupational therapy services. Susie also consulted in the field of Occupational Therapy to several hospitals in the Chicagoland area, including Condell Hospital, Libertyville, IL, and Victory Memorial Hospital, Waukegan, IL. Having three children whom all loved and benefited from performing in the theatre, she has first hand knowledge of the benefits that theatre arts can bring. Watching her children grow and thrive in the performing arts, combined with her experience in Occupational Therapy, led her to envision the opportunity for children and teens that possess a wide array of special needs to experience the joy and enrichment of the theatre. Read how Susie's dream transpired at the dinner table one evening. The excerpt below is from chapter seven of Take Out Your Nose Ring, Honey, We're Going to Grandma's. You can view this by clicking on the link below.