Ravenna – Neighborhood Development Services, Inc. (NDS) received a $4000 grant from NeighborWorks America’s Community Leadership Institute (CLI) Program. Participants attend the CLI as part of a local “team,” usually comprising six residents/key volunteers and a representative from a participating NeighborWorks organization, such as NDS.
The annual training event aims to strengthen the voices and skills of the community, residents, and volunteer leaders in communities across the country. The 2018-2019 CLI team is comprised of organizations/residents who have a vested interest in the revitalization of downtown Ravenna. The group includes team facilitator Erica Sadaj, NDS and members are comprised of team leader, Ryann Kuchenbecker, representing the Ravenna Area Chamber of Commerce, Brian Hare representing Main Street Ravenna, Eric Hummel representing the Core Team, Helene Leightner representing Ravenna Area Chamber of Commerce Board, and Don Everett representing area residents. “NDS is thrilled to provide this group with a unique opportunity to not only train together with people across the country, but implement an action plan to complete a project in the community.” Said, Sadaj, marketing and PR director at NDS. “Success will be measured based on the installation and unveiling of a mural in downtown Ravenna.”
Through the action plan process, the team has scouted locations, worked with businesses and/or building owners, identified mural artists, connected with city of Ravenna officials, and identified other sources of potential funding.
“This team has planned effectively; the location and artist have been selected for the project.” Said, Kuchenbecker, executive director of the Ravenna Area Chamber of Commerce. “Clint Marsh owner of Warhorse Ink recently moved to the downtown area and created a rendering we feel confident will resonate with residents of Ravenna.” She added.
While the group has an obligation to fulfill one mural as part of the $4000 CLI grant, they intend to leverage more partnerships and funding. Their goal is to expand upon the initial action plan and facilitate the installation of ten murals throughout the downtown and beyond. “We have leveraged some of the $4000 grant already.” Kuchenbecker noted.
Eric Hummel graciously donated the supplies needed to create the mural. We will use those funds towards a planned mural on Parkway, stay tuned for more details,” Ryann said.
The first mural will begin installation at the end of May and/or beginning of June. The CLI teams intends to have an unveiling and will be announcing that in the coming weeks. For more information on the CLI or this project contact either, Erica Sadaj at esadaj@ndsohio.org or Ryann Kuchenbecker at ravennachamber@att.net.
