Young adults ages 22-30 will learn the fundamentals of animation including creating storyboards, computer animation, and sound design using the industry standard software, Toon Boom used by Disney Television Animation, Warner Bros., Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon and more. No experience necessary.
Animation Arts for Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Related Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities is presented by Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with The Taft Foundation, Fantasy Theatre Factory, The Town of Miami Lakes and the Miami Lakes Special Needs Advisory Board.
Registration Opens April 6, 2026!
Who: Students ages 22-30 with autism spectrum disorder and related disabilities who are able to follow instructions, communicate independently, and participate in a group setting.
Parent/Guardian/Student Virtual Orientation: TBA via Zoom
When: May 2 – June 20, 2026. Saturdays, 2:00-5:00 PM
Culminating Event: June 27, 2026, location TBD. Students will present their animations in a “film festival” celebration for invited friends and family
Where: Mary Collins Community Center - 15151 NW 82nd Ave, Miami Lakes, FL 33016
Program Fees: $30 for Miami-Dade County Residents
For more information, contact Evelyn Gigiras
Para obtener ayuda en español, comuníquese con Evelyn Gigiras
Click links below to view examples of works created by fall 2024 participants:
- Planet Raccoon by Edouardo Flores
- Lou Gets an Apple by Marco Antonio Dominguez
- The Cat Who Had the Midnight Snack by Zachary Johnson
About the Instructor: Brenna Verner
Brenna Verner is a Cuban-American creative professional born and raised in Miami, Florida with over 10 years of experience producing digital art and animation. Currently employed at her alma mater, Miami Dade College’s MAGIC program, Brenna worked at Telemundo as a graphic designer for the nation's leading Hispanic news shows. She is an award-winning artist and writer with the ability to produce exceptional creative content using industry-standard software and practices. Brenna premiered her original animated short A Balanced Breakfast on Nickelodeon, as well as the short film she animated Circa at the Perez Art Museum in Miami. Her work has been exhibited in the Museum of the Moving Image in New York, and her animation team won an award for Best Editing on behalf of Easterseals. Brenna has worked on several short film projects, including a commercial for the Velocia app, and a national anti-bullying campaign called Parker & Boo voiced by Rob Paulsen of Animaniacs fame. She also has 5 years' experience working as an animation instructor and facilitator for students with disabilities in our community through Arts 4 Learning, Cartoon Academy, Danimation Entertainment, Autism Alliance, and Varsity Tutors. Her students would describe her as an exceedingly kind, enthusiastic, and creative individual who exemplifies both passion and hard work, and lives to leave a positive impact in the world!