Pathways to Progress

Ena's Caribbean Kitchen Implementation

Residents and visitors to Linden will notice two new bright spots along Cleveland Avenue these days. In conjunction with students from The Ohio State University and local high school students, NDC helped with a community based placemaking effort as part of the Pathways to Progress program. In this eight-week program, students learn leadership and professionalism—but they also proposed unique placemaking projects and implemented two of them before the summer ended.

The first project is an exterior facelift at the legendary Ena’s Caribbean Kitchen. The students designed murals and re-painted the storefront windows. In addition to the murals the students envisioned a new awning, sign, and out door seating areas complete with picnic tables with umbrellas, planters and decorative flags.

Beauty All Over Implementation

The second project was at Beauty All Over, where the students painted murals, added planters, and replaced awnings to enhance the atmosphere for salon patrons and passersby alike. Both projects were designed in conjunction with the business owners and are intended to speak to the larger Linden community. The interventions will continue to illustrate the creativity, aspiration and opportunities provided by youth within our community and the resiliency of those who live, work or engage with these businesses.

Project funding partners include the City of Columbus, Franklin County Board of Commissioners, I know I can, The Ohio State University and the Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio.

Watch the testimonials of all involved in this program, including partners, business owners, and students.