Hallmark Artists Brighten Up Neighborhoods
Abandoned homes throughout the east side recently received an artistic makeover, thanks to a partnership between Greater Kansas City LISC, the City of Kansas City, Missouri and one of the world’s most well-known creative entities.
Hallmark recently approached LISC about how their artists could use their skills to help beautify deserving neighborhoods. Each year, the company’s associates participate in “My Five Days” – a time to work on individual or team projects designed to recharge their creativity. This year a team of associates decided they wanted to use their time and talent to help neighborhoods.
That’s when Hallmark reached out to LISC Program Officer Amanda Wilson to identify neighborhoods and solidify partnerships. Wilson decided the project was a perfect opportunity to work with the City of Kansas City, Missouri’s Land Bank program which offers abandoned properties for sale.
The groups worked together and came up with a colorful solution –the artists would design panels that replace the abandoned houses’ boarded-up doors and windows with vibrant, eye-catching art.
“We’re taking something blighted and improving it. That’s what this stands for – making the property and neighborhood beautiful,” said Karen Slaughter, Hallmark retiree and Key Coalition Neighborhood leader.
When LISC reached out to neighborhoods to see if the project would be appreciated, neighborhood leaders expressed overwhelming support.
“It will give our neighborhood hope and joy,” said Nancy Simons of Blue Valley Neighborhood Association. “They’re used to looking at a lot of trash and negative things. This will bring hope to the kids and families in our area.”
Since 1981, LISC has invested more than $21 million in Kansas City neighborhoods which has resulted in more than $233 million in total development and impacted nearly 80,000 residents throughout neighborhoods in the Troost-Prospect Corridors, Historic Northeast KCMO and Downtown KCK. Click here for more information about our commitment to neighborhood revitalization.
Hallmark's "My 5 Days" and LISC featured on FOX 4 News
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