More Groups Using Improv To Make A Difference…
BATS’ Laughing Stock program (San Francisco, California)
Through the Laughing Stock program, BATS Improv offers free improvisation classes to people living with HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis C, cancer, and other chronic, life-threatening illnesses. The classes focus on strengthening quality of life through humor, physical activity, group interaction, risk-taking, and imagination games.
Urban Improv (Boston, Massachusetts)
is an interactive program for young people that uses improvisational theater workshops to teach violence prevention, conflict resolution, and decision-making. The program’s innovative curriculum helps students deal creatively with major issues in their lives. It is truly a rehearsal for life.
Shenanigans (Atlanta, GA)
is a pioneer in applied improv theater for children and adults on the autistic spectrum. They practice key social skills (empathy, body language, vocal cues, interpreting and portraying emotions), make new friends, and have fun in an atmosphere of creativity, acceptance, and humor.
Laughter For A Change (California)
brings laughter into communities where a good laugh is in short supply. L4c is a non-profit organization that partners with other non-profits and community groups to share the joys and benefits of improvisational theater. Their programs encourage participants to play and share themselves in a way that builds self-confidence and creates meaningful connections.
and organizations you might find interesting…
The International Society for Humor Studies is a scholarly and professional organization dedicated to the advancement of humor research. Members are interested in humor’s many facets, including its role in business, entertainment, and health care as well as how humor varies according to culture, age, gender, purpose, and context.
The Association For Applied & Therapeutic Humor is the leader in providing evidence-based information about current research and practical applications of humor. Humor and laughter are used to enhance work performance, support learning, improve health and as a coping tool.
ComedyCures is a non-profit organization that brings joy, hope, laughter and therapeutic comedy programs to kids and grown-ups living with illness, trauma, depression and disabilities. Through live events and digital outreach; they entertain and educate patients, families and caregivers around the globe.
The Applied Improvisation Network is a community of practitioners and clients who use improvisation tools, experience, and theory for human development and training in communities and organizations. These applications may include—but are not limited to—facilitating creativity, innovation, effective strategy, organizational vitality and alignment, better relationships, conflict resolution, and storytelling.
