The inspiration for the film
"Making Sense" is based on the science of neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to re-wire itself to compensate for a missing or diminished sense. One of the early pioneers of this work was Paul Bach-y-Rita who developed the concept of sensory substitution in the 1960s to treat patients with disabilities, often those caused by neurological problems. One of the first applications of sensory substitution he created was a chair which allowed blind people to 'see' by using vibrating plates on the user's back. Today, sensory therapies are used commonly to treat recovering stroke victims to aid in the re-wiring of their brains.
In "Making Sense", people with disabilities representing the five physical senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch and smell), played roles with their respective diminished senses. The film aims to change the perception of people of disabilities from being "damaged" to those with enlightened senses in other areas.
Organizations involved in the making of the film
Community is the main theme of the story of Making Sense. Similarly, community is engaged in the film itself. The following non-profit organizations have supported the project:
JUMP: Technical consultation, special effects, and facility for pre-production, casting and production.
Boise State: Identification of students for crew positions, set locations.
One Stone: Identification of disabled talent; Identification of set locations in Boise and McCall.
Idaho Parents Unlimited: Script consultation for intellectual disabilities.
IncludeAbility Inc. Non-profit organization supporting film.
Idaho Education Services for the Deaf and the Blind: Consultation of resources.
Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired: Script consultation and identification of possible cast members.
Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Script consultation and identification of possible cast members.
Kids Helping Kids Through Sports and Arts
“Making Sense” will be financed through non-profit grants made to IncludeAbility Inc. IncludeAbility is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that promotes the inclusion of all abilities through youth sports, arts and other activities. IncludeAbility was founded by Trace Dandrea and Doug Cole, two friends who were pioneers in the Idaho region of Racing for Orphans with Down Syndrome (RODS.org) which has raised over $1 Million for the adoption of 35 children from around the world.
Inclusion is a broad concept that has the potential to involve many individuals than those facing a specific affliction. Therefore, IncludeAbility Inc. was created to serve a broad population and invite participants to engage in a shared experience. The organization encourages communities in Idaho to provide opportunities for adults and children of all ages to participate alongside their disabled peers.