Kevin Tomson-Hooper - The "ART" of Community Renewal!

My guest today is one of those people who, not only sees a need in the world (and I mean literally the world!) but one of those rare individuals who actually takes action to do something about it! Kevin Tomson-Hooper now lives here at the lake. But his career in non-profits has taken him and his wife, Sarah, to countries all over the world, serving people suffering, most often in circumstances they had no control over. We will talk about an organization he served for many years that we all know, but most of us probably don’t know how much they do and how far and wide they reach. Kevin served as the Executive Director of Social Services for Southern Corporate Headquarters for the Salvation Army and he will tell us a lot more about the organization and its good work. As a world traveler, Kevin will tell us a couple of his all time favorite destinations, as well as those on the bottom of his list! Also, with his interest in art, he had an opportunity to obtain art from many places, each with a special meaning to him and Sarah. Kevin has been a key player in stimulating the economic development of Eatonton. Part of a group with a goal of revitalization of downtown Eatonton some years ago, one area that was determined to bring visitors was in the arts, specifically visual arts. From that idea, the Artisans Village was born. Now with a Guild consisting of nearly 200 artists, many of them local, our area is extremely fortunate to have such a vibrant art community that hosts a number of events each year. We'll talk about how all of that came about, current events and so much more. And you don’t want to miss the shopping opportunities for everyone on your Christmas list! We’ll also discuss the history and revitalization of Barrel 118, an incredible event venue that Kevin & Sarah have rehabbed, also in downtown Eatonton. Of course, you’ll learn what lured them to the lake, and now, in the latest chapter of a most interesting life, Kevin is continuing to help people in need, here and all over the world. Guest - Kevin Tomson-Hooper https://theartisansvillage.org/ https://barrel118.com/ https://theartisansvillage.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Artisans-Village-Art-Gallery-article.pdf Sponsors - Lake Oconee Bistro; Tim Broyles State Farm; Farmers & Merchants Bank https://www.lakeoconeebistro.com https://mydowntownagency.com/ https://ibankfmb.com/