ACRE Graduation
Date:
August 30, 2024
Location:
Greensburg Garden and Civic Center
The ACRE Graduation was held this summer and words can’t fully express my gratitude for the incredible experience I’ve had with ACRE! Thank you, Bridgeway Capital, for bringing this transformative program to life. Being part of the 2023-2024 ACRE Greensburg cohort has been an honor and a privilege. Through this program, I’ve gained invaluable mentorship, built meaningful relationships in the community, and grown so much as an artist and entrepreneur.
Our recent graduation event was a heartfelt celebration of our journeys. All 10 cohort members gave presentations about our businesses and the impact ACRE has had on us. The evening was filled with food, camaraderie, and connection with local community members who attended. I’m so grateful for this opportunity and excited to see what the future holds!
A huge thank you to the Greensburg Garden and Civic Center for hosting such the ACRE graduation—you are so appreciated!
More About ACRE
ACRE (Appalachian Center for Resilient Education) is a program dedicated to empowering communities in Pennsylvania and West Virginia through creativity, education, and resilience. By providing mentorship, resources, and opportunities, ACRE supports artists, educators, and community leaders in developing innovative projects that foster local culture and sustainability. The program nurtures creativity across diverse mediums, emphasizing the transformative power of art and collaboration. ACRE’s mission is to equip individuals with the tools to inspire positive change, build community connections, and celebrate the rich artistic heritage of the Appalachian region.
The benefits of this program have been life-changing. I’ve received 1:1 business coaching with Lyz Marshal at Seton Hill, personalized coaching from experts, a scholarship to a Touchstone Center for Crafts welding workshop, and business trainings that have sharpened my skills. They even covered my booth at Handmade Arcade in 2023, which became my best market experience ever! I also received a new logo and branding, along with a professional branding photoshoot, all of which have elevated my business.