Where Art Meets Impact: The Art of Hope Closing Reception

Operation New Hope (ONH), dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty and incarceration in Florida, recently hosted an inspiring Closing Reception for The Art of Hope exhibition. Held at the University of North Florida’s Student Union in the Lufrano Intercultural Gallery and The Boathouse, the event welcomed over 150 guests to an evening celebrating art, resilience, and community support.

The exhibit featured an exceptional collection of artwork created by participants in ONH’s nationally recognized Ready4Work program. Each week, clients engage in art therapy as part of their reentry journey, using creative expression to foster healing and personal growth. Many of these client-created pieces were showcased at the event, sharing powerful stories of transformation and hope.

Artwork was available for purchase through a silent auction, with proceeds above the artists’ asking price going directly to support ONH’s mission. Guests also participated in a raffle and purchased Hope merchandise, contributing further to the cause. Following time in the gallery, attendees moved into the Boathouse, enjoying food, drinks, and speeches from ONH leaders and special guests.

Founder Kevin Gay, President and CEO Reggie Fullwood, Board President Coley Jones, and other speakers shared powerful stories of resilience, growth, and hope, emphasizing Operation New Hope’s impact since its founding in 1999. Kevin Gay reflected, “What I am most proud of is how our community came together behind this effort. We have called Jacksonville the City of Second Chances, and that doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when all the key components align. I couldn’t be prouder of our city for that. Since we started, Jacksonville’s support has grown so much that cities like Tampa, Orlando, St. Pete, and the Space Coast are joining in. This could not happen without our great partners.”

Reggie Fullwood added, “Our mission has always been to transform lives. Initially, we focused on affordable housing, revitalizing urban communities, and helping families achieve the American dream. Through that work, we realized that our passion lies in helping individuals reacclimate to society and rebuild their lives. We are in the business of supporting human beings. These 25 years of serving our community have been phenomenal.”