The City of Richardson and the Eisemann Center are hosting a community event called Access+Inclusion 23: A Road Toward Mental Wellness the week of February 6-11, 2023. Activities led by Dr. Kevin Spencer are being held at the Eisemann Center throughout the week as well as the Richardson Public Library, Methodist Richardson Medical Center, UT Dallas, Richardson Independent School District, The Counseling Place, Center for Brain Health, and with the Richardson Police and Fire Departments. Access+Inclusion 23 is the continuation of a conversation started in 2021 with the event called Inclusion is Magical which brought attention to the capabilities and opportunities of individuals on the autism spectrum.
This year’s program was created to raise awareness and open a discussion about mental health and wellness, continuing to encourage the involvement of organizations and departments within our community. The week will include panel discussions for first responders and symposiums with local experts on Wednesday, February 8. The program will conclude with two Sensory Inclusive performances by magician and educator, Kevin Spencer, Ph.D., on February 11 at 11 am and 2 pm in the Bank of America Theatre. The City invited students, educators, corporations, and members of the community to join the conversation in two Mental Wellness Symposiums at the Eisemann Center on Wednesday, February 8 for a panel of First Responders taking about their approach to mental wellness for themselves and the public and presenters from Education, Healthcare, and the Arts spoke about their approach to Mental Wellness.
Kevin Spencer, Ph.D. is an educator, teaching artist, researcher, award-winning film producer, speaker and entertainer. For more than 28 years, Dr. Spencer toured the world with one of the largest and most successful theatrical illusion productions in the U.S. At the pinnacle of his career, he stepped away from the stage and into classrooms and hospitals. Kevin believes in creating inclusive communities where everyone experiences an authentic sense of belonging and no one — for any reason — is relegated to the margins.
The Magic of Kevin Spencer, was held Saturday, February 11. This relaxed, sensory-friendly family event is designed for children and adults of all ages and abilities. The event featured Spencer in two fun-filled shows that combine storytelling, stage magic, and audience participation.
This program was made possible by the support of the City of Richardson, Methodist Richardson Medical Center, Richardson ISD, UT Dallas, Unified Empowerment, AOSS Medical Supply LLC, Eisemann Center Presents, Eisemann Educates, Logotology and West Coast University. For information on sponsorship for the 2024 event, contact Sarah Wagner at sarah.wagner@cor.gov or call 972.744.4612.