IMPACTING COMMUNITY THROUGH THE ARTS

About us

How We’re Helping

Artistic Empowerment Centers, Inc., or AEC, is a 501(c)3 non-profit arts outreach organization transforming lives through creative, performing and visual arts. Since 2006, our mission has been to impact traditionally marginalized communities with low socio-economic status by assisting them in discovering their unique identity, exploring their purpose in community and nurturing effective communication skills in society. As we serve our priority population, confidence begins to display evidence of a healthier self image and stronger relationships while competence is exercised in communication with others. Societal ills such as gun violence, truancy, and teenage pregnancy are exchanged for a more fruitful quality of life as, through the arts, they learn to become their best selves and more productive citizens improving society at large.

MISSION

To eradicate the effects of poverty by positively impacting communities of Black, Indigenous and people of color with low socioeconomic status utilizing creativity.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

1. To provide equitable opportunities in accessing and participating in the arts.

 

2. To increase knowledge and understanding of various life skills through arts integration.

 

3. To incorporate data-driven, evidence-based, yet fun strategies into programming for enjoyable, sustainable outcomes.

 

4. To accept those in our priority population, providing guidance in identifying personal and relational assets and in applying best practices of these skill sets.

 

5. To support creative enterprise that promotes healthy community development.

 

VISION

For communities of Black, Indigenous and people of color with low socioeconomic status to practically experience transformation and advancement evidenced by improved qualities of life, fostering stronger families and more resilient communities.

programs

Youth leadership & development program focused on self-awareness & advocacy to a personal cause useful in college & career readiness as well as social responsibility.

Behavioral, relational and mental health  solutions as well as financial empowerment toward healthy self-identity, relationship management, communication skills and economic productivity.

Educational stage experiences to empower, educate, enlighten & inspire community members & participants from socially-disadvantaged areas.

Full-day summer camp enrichment experience introducing underserved youth to their gifts, talents, and skill sets as well as local assets in their community for a greater sense of appreciation and belonging.

Artistic excursions exposing socially disadvantaged community members to theatrical arts and creative career opportunities while bridging generational cultural gaps fostering healthier family and community bonds.

TEAM MEMBERS​

Maylyn Davis

Board Member

LaTanya Jackson

Board Member

Daanish Jones

Board Member

Tonya Rollins

Board Member

Dwight Thomas

Board member

Carlyncia Peck

Founder/Executive Director

Maylyn is a dynamic individual with a diverse background in both the fashion industry and the corporate world. She is a proud graduate of the Fashion Institute, where she honed her creative and innovative skills in the realm of fashion design and merchandising. Additionally, Maylyn obtained a degree from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, further enriching her knowledge and expertise. For the past two decades, Maylyn thrived in the corporate landscape of New York City, where she held various positions within the fashion industry. Her tenure allowed her to cultivate a keen business acumen, refine her leadership abilities, and develop a strong network of industry professionals. Maylyn’s unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to navigate the fast-paced and competitive nature of the fashion world made her a valued asset to her employers.

An advocate of self-development and serving others. She founded BRIDESHEART COMMUNICATIONS consulting services to empower individuals and causes to achieve their highest potential. Ms. Jackson mentors all ages, supports non-profit organizations and communities. Known as “The Incubator” and “Purpose Pusher,” she helps clients mature their ideas into manifested vision leveraging her 40 years U.S. Federal Government career experience, talent development, event planning and creativity.

 

Ms. Jackson enjoys family time, traveling, entertaining, creative arts, camping, reading, learning, creating, and fashion.

Daanish Jones has been leading the charge in the administrative industry for over 20 years working with Fortune 500 executives. She currently serves as Executive Assistant and Events Coordinator at Stand Together Foundation. 


As a superhero in her industry, she has taken the role of Executive Assistant and built it into so much more. Her unique experience as an administrative professional allowed her the opportunity to see firsthand the magic unseen and unsung heroes facilitate. She leverages the power of media to tell stories about those often overlooked – the most essential among us. Focusing on showcasing the undeniable impact and elevating the work of bold leaders. 


As a mentor to youth, her mission has been to educate teens on practical and unique ways to dress professionally for the corporate workplace, as well as to fully equip them with the needed skills to successfully conduct school and job interviews with her Success Academy. A Native Washingtonian, Mrs. Jones has furthered her education as a foundation to her service to the community.

Tonya Rollins is an experienced educator with a passion for teaching and positively impacting students’ lives. With 16 years of dedicated service as an educator, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and student development.


Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of teaching diverse students from different backgrounds and with varying learning abilities. By adapting her teaching methods to meet the individual needs of each student, Ms. Rollins has created an inclusive and engaging learning environment.


Ms. Rollins expertise lies in providing reading intervention for low-performing students and special education. By staying up to date with the latest educational research and incorporating innovative teaching strategies, she has fostered a love for learning among her students.


In addition to her classroom responsibilities, Ms. Rollins has taken on leadership roles within the school community. She serves as a mentor to new teachers, sharing her expertise and helping them navigate the challenges of the profession. Beyond the classroom, she has been actively engaged in volunteer work, community service and served as a youth leader within her church community.


Whether inspiring students to reach their full potential or creating a supportive learning environment, Ms. Rollins’ impact as an educator and youth ambassador is undeniable. Her 16 years of teaching experience have shaped the lives of countless students and the educational landscape as a whole.

With over 25 years of expertise in corrections, rehabilitation, and substance abuse treatment, Dwight Thomas, Sr. stands as a results-focused leader. His comprehensive approach and motivational solutions empower men to unlock their full power and potential, recognizing themselves as their most valuable assets. Mr. Thomas embarked on his career in juvenile justice in 1991 initiating The Brothers 4 Life Project for young men, ages 13-18. Certified as an Addictions Specialist in 2002, he instituted an arts therapy program as a spiritual model for treatment. He responded to a call to ministry in 2009 and has held positions with the State of Maryland and several churches. Leveraging his extensive experiences, Mr. Thomas continues to make a meaningful impact, providing resources to individuals across all aspects of life with an unwavering dedication to serve.

As Founder and Executive Director of Artistic Empowerment Centers, a 501(c)3 non-profit arts outreach organization. Carlyncia believes in lifting as she climbs empowering others to realize their full potential. Essential to her calling is inciting positive self-image, bringing efficacy in communication and teaching the value of relationship both personally and socially relative to commune-unity. 


A cum laude graduate of Howard University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, Carlyncia concentrated her studies in musical theatre and has been working professional in many facets of the entertainment industry on stage, in film and behind the scenes for nearly 35 years. Carlyncia is a sought after creative arts professional as a consultant, speaker, trainer and facilitators sharing her God-given wisdom, knowledge and gifting with those entrusted to her care. Given her entrepreneurial nature, Carlyncia encourages others to discover their true identity influencing use of their gifts, talents, skill sets and abilities to positively influence, impact and shift culture. 


Carlyncia is blessed to serve as “G-ma” to five, mother of two, and wife of more than 30 years to the one and only Gregory Peck, Sr.

TESTIMONIALS

Our Happy Clients!

“I learned not to be scared to express yourself.  I can improve by getting along with people more.  I would like to learn how to do things new.”

Ricardo

Middle School Participant

“Great community event”

 

Kenice H.

review on AEC Tale, Talk & Tour

 

“Artistic Empowerment Center’s Theatrical Wellness Program offered middle school students a great alternative to traditional therapy.”

Angela Otero

Theatrical Wellness Program

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Key Sponsor

viaJ entertainment services, L LC. was established in 1993 to serve as a tool for professional development in creative, corporate and governmental settings.

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