Neighborhood Design Center

Ready to give your storefront a fresh new look? The Power of One program offers a one-time grant of up to $10,000 to help enhance your business’ curb appeal and make a lasting first impression.

Apply by 5:00p.m. on May 29th and visit POWER1CBUS.ORG for more details!

The Lincoln's commitment to the arts ecosystem of Columbus is reflected in its variety of performing arts programs. All housed within the historic Lincoln Theater, we're sharing ways in which one of Long St.'s oldest institutions is continuing to give back to its community.
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Columbus Is My Neighborhood is NDC’s platform for amplifying the stories of individuals from all backgrounds that have shaped the growth of the city we call home. Discover the role of the arts in building community!

Aniya Valentine is a senior at Eastmoor Academy whose passion for artistic expression is leading her toward a future in architecture and fashion.

During her time as a CoLab Studio intern, Aniya teamed up with nine of her peers to navigate the architectural process from beginning to end, witnessing firsthand how design can create stronger communities. The experience left a lasting impression, inspiring her to pursue other creative outlets that make a difference.

Aniya has continued to grow her skills as both an artist and leader beyond CoLab Studio. This includes having taken part in her school’s musical set design, embracing opportunities that challenged her to fail, restart, go outside of her comfort zone, and adapt. Following her upcoming graduation, Aniya will attend the University of Cincinnati to study Architecture with a minor in Fashion Design, allowing her to combine the creative skill set she’s developed with the more mathematical side of art.

An active member of her school community, Aniya is involved in cross country, track and field, student council, National Honor Society, their student newspaper, and broadcasting team, bringing energy and curiosity into everything she does.

Today’s the day–join us TONIGHT for our short film premiere to hear directly from Aniya and other panelists! Get your tickets now through the link in our bio and be a part of the conversation🤝

From Columbus to Cleveland🚀

Our team hit the road this week to spend time with the Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative, getting to know their office and the projects they’re bringing to life across Northeast Ohio.

Opportunities like this remind us why we do what we do, and how much stronger our impact can be when we learn from one another. Thank you to for the warm welcome and congrats on 25 years of design in action!

Rooted in the South Side and shaped by community, Aaron D. Hamilton’s story is deeply connected to the place he calls home.

Born at Grant Hospital just miles from Community Development for All People’s Fresh Market, Aaron has spent his life growing alongside his neighborhood. Today, he serves as the Market’s manager, bringing that same sense of care and connection into his work each day. As part of the Community Development for All People (CD4AP) family for nearly two years, Aaron takes pride in supporting the food program and witnessing the impact it has on local families.

was formed in 2003 with the mission of improving the quality of life for persons on the South Side of Columbus. Of their facilities, the Fresh Market was selected to be our 2025 CoLab Studio’s project client. In partnership with Mid-Ohio Food Collective, CD4AP’s food program is one of Ohio’s largest distributors of free produce. Given this context, our interns were tasked with creating an experience for users that reflects the market’s commitment to radical hospitality.

For Aaron, this work is personal, and seeing artwork that reflects the love, energy, and spirit of the community makes it all the more meaningful.

Join us for our May 7th short film premiere to hear directly from Aaron and other panelists! Get your tickets now through the link in our bio and be part of the conversation🤝

The Lincoln Theatre’s legacy has been shaped by the leaders, artists, and community members who helped it thrive through every chapter of its history. From visionaries who first brought the space to life, to those who restored and preserved it for future generations, their impact continues to define what the theatre is today.

Take a look back at some of the influential figures who have contributed to the Lincoln’s nearly 100-year story.

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Columbus is my neighborhood is NDC’s platform for amplifying the stories of individuals from all backgrounds that have shaped the growth of the city we call home. Discover the role of the arts in building community!

Shelbi Toone is a highly impactful designer, muralist, and artist whose work has helped define the creative and cultural identity of Central Ohio.

Through her creative business, Shel10, LLC, Shelbi has spent over a decade delivering culturally responsive projects that merge art with purpose. She is the founder of multiple initiatives that remove barriers to access and nurture emerging artists, consistently bridging institutions and community to ensure programming reflects lived experience and advances equity.

As project director with the Ohio History Connection for the Poindexter Village Museum–Central Ohio’s FIRST African American museum–Shelbi leads the interpretation and preservation of Columbus’ Black history. Under her leadership, the museum will become a living archive that prioritizes community voice, fosters intergenerational connection, and ensures history is told with authenticity and care.

A respected civic leader, Shelbi recently completed a six-year tenure with NDC, concluding her service as Board President this past January. She currently serves as Board President of All People Arts and Co-Chair of the Columbus Art Commission. Across every role, she is a connector and advocate–building pathways for youth, amplifying community voices, and embedding culture into civic life.

Join us for our May 7th short film premiere to hear directly from Shelbi and other panelists! Get your tickets now through the link in our bio and be part of the conversation🤝

Welcome to the Lincoln Theatre in the King-Lincoln Bronzeville neighborhood of Columbus! In addition to its rich history, legacy, and community importance, the theatre is a program awardee and will be receiving a special addition in May–stay tuned for more.

In the meantime, acquaint yourself with the theatre and enjoy a of its nearly 100-year story.

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Columbus is my Neighborhood is NDC’s platform for amplifying the stories of individuals from all backgrounds that have shaped the growth of the city we call home. Discover the role of the arts in building community!