With support from the California Arts Council, So Say We All will produce VAMP: Stories Without Barriers, a quarterly disability-led storytelling showcase launching in October 2026. This project creates accessible pathways for disabled artists to develop, perform, archive, and publicly share lived experiences while increasing cultural visibility, empathy, and community connection across San Diego.
Grant funds will support project operating expenses necessary to deliver the initiative, including staff salaries, program coordination, contracted disabled teaching artists, and technical production personnel. Funds will also support venue rentals and accessibility accommodations, including ASL interpretation, closed captioning, recording, livestreaming, and expanded digital access for individuals unable to attend in person. These investments will reduce barriers to participation, strengthen accessibility and representation in the arts, and ensure the ongoing delivery of inclusive, high-quality storytelling programs for historically underserved communities.
So Say We All (SSWA) delivers a comprehensive storytelling pipeline that supports participants from first draft to public presentation and publication. Core programs include creative writing workshops; live storytelling events and performances; one-on-one coaching in writing, performance, and public speaking; and publication opportunities in print and digital formats.
Signature programs such as VAMP (curated storytelling showcase) and Long Story Short (open-mic storytelling series) provide accessible platforms for community members to share their stories.
Through education programs and partnerships with San Diego storytelling community partners, SSWA supports both youth and adult emerging writers and performers in developing communication skills, creative confidence, and pathways into storytelling, media, and the arts. Targeted initiatives serve veterans, LGBTQIA+ communities, and individuals from immigrant backgrounds.