Programme notes
A family venture that grew into a stage, a studio and a band.
ProjectFREE began in 2009. Kim Costanzo, Tony Costanzo, Sharon Vanderlinde and the late Rosemary Dempsey started it together as a family venture.
Where it started
It started in Connecticut as a full Adult Day Training program built around the arts and performance. Music, theater and visual art were never an extra saved for the afternoon. They were how the day worked.
On the air from Waterford
From 2009 to 2013 ProjectFREE ran a public access television show out of Waterford, Connecticut, called “New England’s got Special Talent.” It featured musicians with diverse abilities from all over the state. The team hopes to bring it back as a podcast.
Why Lauren
“Kim Costanzo put this group together and fueled their progress inspired by her indomitable niece, Lauren, who personifies what is possible when a person focuses on their abilities and breaking down barriers. Lauren happens to have Down Syndrome.”
From the ProjectFREE website
Who leads it
ProjectFREE is led by a group of educators, parents and advocates with outstanding experience and determination. Audrey Short is the Music and Art Director. Kim says Audrey made the musicals happen.
The house band, Solar Flair, was runner-up for Best of the Bay from Creative Loafing Tampa Bay, according to Kim Costanzo.
Our mission
To inspire and empower adults with diverse abilities through inclusive programs of academics, creativity, and enterprise.
These include theater, music, fine arts, micro business ventures, and community initiatives. ProjectFree creates opportunities for self-expression, skill development, and meaningful connection. We believe in celebrating talent, independence ensuring every voice is seen, heard, and valued.
See what the day looks like now.
Today ProjectFREE runs from 51st Street South in Gulfport. Read about the programs, help keep them running through a donation, or get in touch and talk to the team.