Honoring Community Resilience Through Art: LTYC's Baybrook Mural and Gutierrez Fund Celebration
Last April, Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Center (LTYC) proudly received the Legacy Grant from the Gutierrez Memorial Fund. This grant allowed us to embark on a deeply meaningful journey of creating a mural at Baybrook Elementary/Middle School, aimed at healing and uplifting a community that experienced profound loss following a tragic shooting in 2023. This initiative underscores the transformative power of art to restore hope, build connections, and inspire resilience.
The Baybrook mural created by the students and the artistic direction of our main muralist Jaz Erenbrug, is more than just an artistic endeavor; it is a symbol of unity and renewal. In collaboration with students, parents, and community members, we held our first Community Building Circle, setting the stage for the creative process that culminates in the mural. These conversations emphasized the shared strength and collective voice of the Baybrook community. The mural, once completed, will stand as a tribute to the community’s courage and the boundless possibilities of creative expression.
This October, we had the honor of celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the Gutierrez Memorial Fund—a vibrant gathering that highlighted the Fund's legacy of supporting the arts in Maryland. The event took place on a beautiful fall weekend at Druid Hill Park, bringing together a diverse community of art lovers, families, and supporters.
We began with a spirited walk through the park, soaking in the crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage. Afterward, attendees enjoyed a delicious lunch catered by Woodberry Kitchen, mingled with friends old and new, and shared stories of inspiration. Other Legacy Grant winners, along with ourselves were celebrated, for our impactful projects serving as reminders of the essential role of the arts in fostering community healing and growth.
This day of celebration was a testament to the enduring legacy of John K. Gutierrez and the shared commitment to strengthening communities through the arts. As we continue our work at Baybrook Elementary/Middle School and beyond, we are reminded of the powerful role partnerships play in turning visions into reality.
Check out the post here.
