Document

Our Story

Bridging creativity and entrepreneurship for individuals with disabilities

How We Started

OHMI ARTS GALLERY was founded on a powerful belief: that individuals with disabilities possess incredible creative talents and entrepreneurial potential that too often go unrecognized and unsupported. Our journey began when founder Maria Santos witnessed talented artists with disabilities struggling not with creativity, but with the business knowledge and support systems needed to monetize their passions.

What started as informal mentorship sessions has evolved into a comprehensive entrepreneurship program specifically designed for adults with disabilities aged 24-36. We recognized that this demographic faces unique challenges: they have the maturity and skills to run businesses, but often lack access to inclusive business training, funding guidance, and the supportive network needed to succeed.

Today, OHMI ARTS GALLERY is more than an art space—it's a launchpad for entrepreneurs. Our EmpowerAbility program combines creativity with real business mentorship, helping participants turn their passions into profit and their abilities into independence. We provide everything from business plan development to marketing strategies, funding guidance to hands-on implementation support.

Our success stories speak volumes: jewelry designers earning steady income, digital artists building client bases, pottery makers opening studios, and greeting card designers securing retail partnerships. These aren't just businesses—they're statements of capability, independence, and limitless potential. We're proving that disability doesn't limit ability; it simply requires a different path to success.

Our Mission

To empower individuals with disabilities (ages 24–36) by helping them turn creative ideas and passions into real, income-generating businesses through comprehensive entrepreneurship programs, dedicated mentorship, and hands-on implementation support.

Our Vision

A world where individuals with disabilities are recognized and respected as capable entrepreneurs, where creativity meets opportunity, and where financial independence replaces dependency. We envision communities enriched by diverse businesses that celebrate ability over limitation.

Our Values

The principles that guide everything we do

Empowerment

We believe in the limitless potential of every individual and provide support to turn dreams into reality.

Independence

We help participants achieve financial freedom and self-sufficiency through entrepreneurship.

Inclusivity

We create accessible, welcoming spaces where everyone's abilities are recognized and celebrated.

Empowerment

We believe in the limitless potential of every individual and provide support to turn dreams into reality.

Empowerment

We believe in the limitless potential of every individual and provide support to turn dreams into reality.

Empowerment

We believe in the limitless potential of every individual and provide support to turn dreams into reality.

Meet Our Team

Dedicated professionals committed to empowering entrepreneurs with disabilities

Melica A. Grimes

Founder & Executive Director

Business coach with 15+ years helping individuals with disabilities achieve entrepreneurship.

James Anderson

Business Development Director

Former entrepreneur and advocate for inclusive business practices and accessibility.

Sofia Rodriguez

Lead Mentor & Trainer

Specialist in creative entrepreneurship and adaptive business strategies.

David Kim

Marketing & Funding Advisor

Expert in small business marketing, funding strategies, and financial literacy.

Dr. Rachel Thompson

Accessibility Coordinator

Specialist in adaptive technology and inclusive business environments.

Michael Patel

Founder & Executive Director

Connecting participants with resources, partners, and community opportunities.

OUR IMPACT

Transforming creativity into independence

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ENTREPRENEURS EMPOWERED

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BUSINESS LAUNCHED

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REVENUE GENERATED

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CONFIDENCE INCREASE