Students Unveil Inspiring New Mural at Brookdale Resource Center

On Tuesday, December 10, Mayor Lester Miller, local students, and community partners unveiled a vibrant new mural at the Hello House within the Brookdale Resource Center. The project, funded by a Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) grant, was six weeks in the making.

“I hope when people see it, it gives them hope,” said Taquhan Williams, a 9th grader at Howard High School, who was among the students who helped design and paint the mural.

Williams, along with Jordan Butts, Tilley Hall, and Malachi Forrest—participants in the Men About Change program—collaborated with Erin Hawkins, the owner and founder of Mama Hawk Draws. Together, they repainted the iconic Hello mural and created a new mural inside the Hello House.

“When we started this journey, my goal was not only to teach these young people the technical steps of mural making—from brainstorming, to sketching, to talking to clients, to literally painting a wall—but also to show them how art can transform a space and leave a lasting impact on our community,” said Hawkins.

The new mural prominently features the words “Stay Strong,” offering a message of resilience and hope to those utilizing the Hello House.

“The Hello mural has become our cornerstone for all things Brookdale, brightening the entryway and serving as a constant reminder of our mission,” said Brookdale Resource Director Alison Bender. “It is where we take photos and celebrate the successes of our residents and the program. Our hope for the new mural in the Hello House is to provide that same support and mentality for the people using that space.”

Mayor Lester Miller emphasized the dual impact of the project: “This will not only give hope to those who need a warm place to sleep at night, but this process helped a group of students along the way. I am so proud of them.”