Art and Hope Mix in a Powerful Evening

Ray A. Jones a founding Trustee of ArtSafe along with other supporters gathered to honor five extraordinary contributors to the empowerment of young people through education and the arts.

The event was the third annual “Power of Art” awards ceremony, and it attracted a diverse group of attendees to Ohio’s Statehouse Atrium to help present the Life Empowerment Award to Jones’ long time friend Yolanda King, who from 2000 until her death this year had been the organization’s Honorary Chair.  Her, award was graciously accepted by her cousin, Dr. Alveda King.

Another of Jones’ friend, noted civil rights activist, scholar, teacher and former President of Central State, Dr. Arthur Thomas accepted the 2007 National Empowerment Award and delivered an inspiring keynote address.   

2007 Empowerment Awards were also presented to Columbus residents who have done much to advance the cause of education and the arts. Philanthropists Bernard and Miriam Yenkin have been friends of ArtSafe since the beginning of the organization’s history; without their support over the years, ArtSafe could not have achieved the national stature it has today.

Author, artist and early childhood educator, Mimi Chenfeld also accepted an award honoring her many years of changing the lives of children—and making Columbus a better community—through innovative and exciting programs in the arts.

Attendees also heard from two graduates of ArtSafe programs at the Ohio Reformatory for Women. Sheena Kadi, now an ArtSafe Board member, recounted her often rocky road from despair to a productive life as a college graduate. Tauheedah Muhammad added inspiring words describing how ArtSafe changed her view of herself and her future.  A liturgical dance performance, choreographed by Lucita Ferris added an extra, entertaining helping of artistry.

With its substantial attendance, the event raised the profile of ArtSafe in Central Ohio, and exceeded fundraising goals, as well. A live auction of work by well-known Central Ohio artists, brilliantly conducted by E.J. Thomas, along with proceeds from sponsors, a silent auction and ticket sales, netted over $40,000 to support ArtSafe programs in the coming year.