Bright Spots: Igniting Change Together – Bringing the Catalyst Community to National City
Earlier this month, ARTS proudly partnered with the City of National City to host the vibrant Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial Counties annual conference. Visit their page to check out some of the highlights from the event!
The conference highlighted the individuals and ideas that are shaping the future of philanthropy in our region. Attendees delved into inspiring breakout sessions, heard visionary keynotes, and engaged in creative activities. These events showcased the collaborative and resilient spirit of our community while also highlighting some of the ‘bright spots’ National City has to offer. ARTS led activations such as a communal mosaic artwork, a guided walk through Kimball Park, and a loom weaving experience. Our talented Teaching Artists and team brought each activity to life.
ARTS Partnership With National City
The National City Martin Luther King Jr. Convention Center and the ARTS Center buzzed with activity. Over 200 guests joined us for a full day of programming. The atmosphere brimmed with energy as participants exchanged insights, forged new connections, and collectively envisioned a brighter future for San Diego and Imperial Counties.
National City Council Member Luz Molina and ARTS Executive Director Lucy Eagleson opened the conference with a warm welcome as morning presenters. Their presence highlighted the significance of representing National City and celebrating its partnership with ARTS. By sharing their vision and enthusiasm, Luz and Lucy set an inspiring tone for the day, making all guests feel included in the city’s ongoing story of creativity and collaboration.
During our lunch session, guests had the chance to enjoy the unique and creative space of the ARTS Center. We were treated to a musical performance by ‘Friend of ARTS’ and former ARTS Program Coordinator, Terry Matsuoka, who played tunes on our patio stage. Guests also had the opportunity to network and explore more of what National City has to offer, with a tour of Kimball Park guided by ARTS Advancement Coordinator Jose Lopez and Recreation Supervisor Zaide Jurado, City of National City.
Collaboration with local youth talent was also a highlight of the conference. National City Youth Artist Marko R., selected from our Community ARTS program, was commissioned to create an original artwork featured on a special event postcard.
Each participant received a postcard and was invited to write a note to their future self, reflecting on one thing they felt inspired to do after attending the event. These postcards will be mailed to participants at a later date as a creative reminder of their intentions and the inspiration sparked at Catalyst.
"What I wanted to show in this piece is the historical significance of National City's Victorian homes and their legacy. I painted the National City's Brick Road as they are the ones I used to walk by every time I walked home from ARTS, and because I believe that it is important to remember our past, especially when it's as rich as National City's history."
Marko R. (age 18), Youth Artist & National City Resident
Breakout Session: Igniting Change Beyond the Dollars
The standout moment in the afternoon for ARTS was the breakout session, "Igniting Change Beyond the Dollars" Funders and grantees discussed the "Five T’s" (time, talent, treasure, testimony, ties) and how these resources boost success beyond funding. Moderated by ARTS Board Member Stephen Minix, the panel included ARTS Executive Director Lucy Eagleson, ARTS Founder and First Executive Director Matt D'Arrigo, and other sector leaders. Together, Lucy and Matt demonstrated how the "Five T's" have fueled ARTS’s growth and impact in recent years, urging funders to initiate a dialogue and inquire about the relationships and opportunities that nonprofit partners need to thrive and succeed.
Closing Activity: Communal Loom Weaving
An inspiring activity was planned to close the event: a communal loom weaving session led by ARTS Teaching Artist Claudia Rodríguez-Biezunski (Sew Loka) with the support of our ARTS on Campus team. Claudia invited participants to view threads as symbols of our journeys and connections. After reflecting on their values and experiences, attendees wrote heartfelt messages on fabric strips, which were woven into a shared tapestry. The session concluded with a lively Ballet Folklorico performance by the San Diego Dance Company, providing an uplifting atmosphere. The finished tapestries served as a vibrant reminder that when our stories and creativity intertwine, we can build a resilient and beautifully unified community.
We are grateful to Catalyst, the City of National City, our team (especially our events team led by Jose Contreras Jr.), and all who attended for making this event a true celebration of creativity, collaboration, and positive change.
