Celebrating Success at The HÜG Place: Akron Community Foundation's Inspiring Community Issues Session

Cristina Gonzalez of the Akron Community Foundation interviews pianist Theron Brown and Ismail Al-Amin the Akron Urban Arts Academy

Akron, April 26, 2023—The Highland Universal Gathering Place, lovingly known as The HÜG Place, recently had the honor of hosting an inspiring Community Issues Session organized by the Akron Community Foundation. On Tuesday, April 25, 2023, this historic Jewish temple, now transformed into The HÜG Place—an empowering hub for arts and cultural enrichment in Highland Square—served as the venue for the Foundation's thought-provoking event.

The Akron Community Foundation regularly hosts Community Issues Sessions, which take place at different locations throughout the year. This time, the spotlight was on The HÜG Place—a place that perfectly embodies the spirit of unity and compassion that aligns with the Foundation's mission.

The session focused on the critical role of arts and culture programming for young people, particularly within the context of the "supercharged" Out of School Time Network. Highlighting the importance of after-school activities that foster educational growth and artistic development, the event brought attention to organizations providing enriching opportunities for local students.

Guests were treated to a diverse program featuring captivating live performances and insightful discussions from esteemed presenters. Among them was Akron-based pianist, composer, and educator, Theron Brown, who passionately spoke about the nonprofit Open Tone Music's performing arts programs for students.

Additionally, Ismail Al-Amin and Ameer Williamson from Akron Urban Arts Academy shared their valuable insights into the academy's dedication to arts and media education, with a special emphasis on hip-hop culture—a commitment that resonates deeply with The HÜG Place's vision of empowering young minds through creativity.

The session also celebrated the accomplishments of Shanti Community Farms, an after-school agriculture program known for its outstanding Black Beanz dance troupe, which has gained local and regional acclaim for its exceptional performances.

The Black Beanz preparing for an event in the newly restored auditorium at The HÜG Place.

The HÜG Place, with its rich historical significance as the restored Temple on Merriman, served as a fitting backdrop for this transformative event. The venue has breathed new life into the legacy of compassion and unity that it once stood for, now dedicated to fostering arts and culture in the community.

As the host of Akron Community Foundation's Issue Sessions, The HÜG Place exemplified the Foundation's commitment to supporting projects that uplift and strengthen the community. The partnership between the Foundation and The HÜG Place continues to make a positive impact on the lives of the community's future generations, providing engaging programs and enriching opportunities.

The event was not only attended by those present at The HÜG Place but was also live-streamed to the Akron Community Foundation's Facebook page, allowing an even broader audience to partake in the transformative experience.

The success of this Community Issues Session stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between Akron Community Foundation and The HÜG Place, reinforcing their shared vision of creating a brighter and more inclusive future for Akron's communities.

About The HÜG Place: The Highland Universal Gathering Place—The HÜG Place—is a beacon of artistic and cultural expression, reviving the legacy of Akron's historic Temple on Merriman. As a vibrant hub for creativity and unity, The HÜG Place is committed to providing educational and artistically enriching opportunities for the community, leaving a lasting positive impact on the lives of its participants.

About Akron Community Foundation: The Akron Community Foundation is a driving force behind transformative initiatives, supporting projects that uplift and strengthen the community. Through their steadfast commitment to funding vital programs, the foundation plays a crucial role in nurturing a brighter and more inclusive future for Akron.

To learn more about Akron Community Foundation and its impactful endeavors, please visit akroncf.org.