PACT was co-founded in 2008 by Encinitas couple Kathryn Campion and William Simonson. At that time it opened its doors as a community theatre serving the general public. PACT’s history, mission and vision have evolved over the years and today it plays a vital role in empowering individuals with autism and creating community. Kathryn serves as PACT’s Executive Director, while William is Chairman of the Board of Directors.
In Kathryn and William’s Words
Some of our first participants were children with autism. Because of the obvious value these children were receiving from performing arts training in an inclusive setting, and because of their parents’ delight to have found something that was making a real difference in their children’s lives, we decided to change the focus of our organization to serving those with autism and other unique needs.
We have worked since that time to empower individuals with autism to come out of the isolation a disability often creates and into a creative community where they can interact with their peers, develop their talents, and share their gifts. We continue to be inspired by their creative genius and by their potential to make all our lives better through their contributions. We also continue to be humbled by the love their families have for them and by their dedication to bringing out the best in these children and young adults.
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Through our evolution as an organization we have hired and trained young adults with autism to teach our improv theatre workshops, and to create innovative theatre events as members of our theatre troupe. These individuals have become the core of our program, and their leadership shows their students what is possible for them.
We have found our programs especially powerful as a vehicle for growth for teens and adults with HFA, where the social and communication skills learned in our theatre workshops have been a “match made in heaven” for their challenges.
Professional Affiliation
PACT is proud to be an alumni affiliate of KIT (Kids Included Together)’s National Training on Inclusion. We have received the benefit of four years of their excellent trainings and conferences on best practices for providing inclusive programs and for serving those with disabilities.
PACT in the News
Autism Weekly Podcast – Jan. 7, 2021
PACT Executive Director Kathryn Campion is interviewed by the director of Alternative Behavior Strategies (ABS), publisher of the Autism Weekly Podcast. Learn how Improv Theatre makes learning social skills fun.
San Diego Union-Tribune – Nov. 21, 2020
Read how PACT has grown into the special arts organization it is today and the unique ways it serves people with autism and other disabilities. An enlightening interview with PACT’s co-founder and executive director, Kathryn Campion.
Encinitas Advocate – Sept 20, 2017
Learn how PACT’s gifted artistic director worked to develop the Saturday workshops and Beyond Bullying Theatre Troupe.
San Diego Union-Tribune – June 3, 2017
Read all about PACT’s Beyond Bullying Theatre Troupe and their work in the community.
Encinitas Advocate – March 27, 2015
See page A13 to learn about the importance and rewards of volunteering at PACT.
Encinitas Advocate – April 10, 2015
This article explains how PACT’s Improv Theatre and Performing Arts workshops help those with autism learn to act—and react!