From left, Jennifer Budge, Max Macedo and other members of the Carson City Chamber of Commerce's 2017 Leadership Class paint a mural on the wall of the dining room at FISH on Thursday, May 3, 2017. The finished work will be unveiled during a celebration on Friday at 6 p.m. Photo by Cody Blue/Nevada Photo Source
Patrons of the dining room at Friends in Service Helping will soon have a brighter and more cheerful wall to look at. For its final project, the Carson City Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Leadership Class is painting a mural in the dining room, which serves meals to homeless people and others in need.
“The situation a lot of their clients find themselves in can be bleak,” said Jen Budge, director of Carson City Parks and Recreation and class member. “If this can give them a brief moment to smile or feel a sense of calm, that’s a win.”
The mural will be unveiled during a Cinco de Mayo-themed fiesta 6 p.m. today at FISH, 138 E. Long St. Food trucks serving tacos and beverages will be available.
The mural incorporates the FISH symbol, and illustrates its philosophy: Providing a Hand Up, Not a Hand Out.
“It’s really calming colors, blues and green,” Budge said. “We want the staff to feel like it’s an inviting environment and for their clients who come in to feel that way as well.”
In its 28th year, the Leadership Class exposes participants to business and organizations in Carson City. The class culminates with a service project. This year’s class included 24 members.
“It’s been a really great experience,” Budge said. “I have met so many people who are wonderful and so proud of Carson City. It’s been really rewarding.”
Businesses contributing to the mural include Meridian Insurance, Rob McFadden, Jr., United Federal Credit Union, Wells Fargo Bank, RCM Realty Group and Harley Davidson Financial Services, Inc.
To become a member of the Carson City Chamber of Commerce, or inquire about the next Leadership Class, go to www.carsoncitychamber.com. For more information about FISH and its services, go to www.nvfish.com.