The Rev. Kimberly L. Hyatt, Executive Director, Cathedral Arts Mission
The mission of Cathedral Arts is to enrich the quality of life in Northeast Florida through unleashing the creative spirit of young people. By providing access to instruction in the visual and performing arts, we empower underserved, school-age children to succeed in all areas of their lives.
Serving Jacksonville
Cathedral Arts was started in 1993 when a small group of individuals from St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral decided to bring 10 students over from what is now Community Connections for dance lessons. We are based in Jacksonville. Since we outgrew our space downtown at the Cathedral, the management staff has been based in the Southpoint area.
Those served
This year, we are serving 1,800 children and youth with after-school programming at sites throughout Duval County.
Biggest challenge
I’d be lying if I did not say fundraising.
Biggest satisfaction
There are so many, but the most satisfying moments are those when I’ve watched family members of our students standing up and applauding with tears running down their faces after their child has performed onstage. So often parents will tell me they did not think their child had it in them to stick with the program all year and to perform before a packed house at the Ritz. I have to believe the families will encourage their kids and expect more from them as a result.
Hometown
I grew up on a little tobacco farm in Loris, S.C., about 20 miles inland from North Myrtle Beach.
Your first experience with community service
I tutored a girl in the town at Presbyterian College, where the motto was Dum Vivimus Servimus, or “While we live, we serve.” It was the first time I had ever heard a real call to service.
Your job before Cathedral Arts
I came to Jacksonville in 1996 after graduating from divinity school in Princeton to be Associate Pastor at South Jacksonville Presbyterian Church. I then served as Interim Pastor for Peace Presbyterian. Before divinity school, I was a business lobbyist in Washington, D.C., for the Food Marketing Institute.
Upcoming events
July 28: Cocktails for a Cause, 4:30 p.m., University Club
March 11: Seventh Annual Spring for the Arts honoring Monica and Bob Jacoby, 6:30-11:30 p.m., Deerwood Country Club. Cost is $125, or $75 for young professionals.
Contact information
www.capkids.org 281-5599 [email protected]