CINCINNATI—ArtWorks, a nonprofit that creates community-based public art and provides career opportunities for artists of all ages, has been recognized as a Gold Leader in Workplace Equity by Ellequate, the nation’s leading certification and platform for workplace equity.
This prestigious recognition highlights ArtWorks’ commitment to fostering a workplace where every team member feels valued, empowered, and able to thrive. Employers can earn one of three certification levels through Ellequate’s program: Bronze, Silver, or Gold. ArtWorks began working with the Ellequate program in 2022, and it received Silver-level certification.
Representatives from ArtWorks participated in an intensive program that included collaborative learning experiences, a rigorous policy assessment, and an employee survey. Ellequate provided ArtWorks with targeted recommendations to meet its employees’ unique needs. As a result, ArtWorks developed strategic action plans and implemented organizational changes including ArtWorks’ first-ever paid family leave policy in 2022.
“It is an incredible honor for ArtWorks to be recognized as a Gold-level Leader in Workplace Equity from Ellequate,” said Colleen Houston, ArtWorks’ CEO and Artistic Director. “Our incredible team of staff and board members have been laser-focused on growing a culture that invests in initiatives that support equity and inclusion. We back our values by putting real policies and benefits in place that make a meaningful difference for all employees.”
ArtWorks’ certification underscores its dedication to creating positive change not just in the community but also within its own organization. The team remains committed to building a workplace that champions equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.
“I would recommend working with Ellequate to any workplace to drive your culture forward,” said Houston. “Ellequate provided us with tools and tangible recommendations so that we could map out a two-year plan to drive progress. Our Gold certification reflects the steps we’ve already taken and our commitment to continued efforts to ensure our workplace is a place where everyone can succeed. We are proud to join a select group of employers who are leading the way in workplace equity.”
About Ellequate
Ellequate helps organizations become employers of choice by offering a data-driven approach to improving employee experience and workplace culture. Through in-depth assessments and prescriptive analytics, we provide companies with a clear roadmap to attract and retain top talent. By setting actionable goals and tracking progress, Ellequate enables organizations to make lasting changes that benefit both employees and business outcomes.
About ArtWorks
Since 1996, ArtWorks has collaborated with community organizations and residents, businesses, governments, foundations, and nonprofits to create works of art that have helped to define Greater Cincinnati’s global reputation as an arts destination. Its mural program has made Cincinnati the #1 City for Street Art in USA Today’s 2024 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. By employing and training over 3,500 professional artists and engaging 4,000 teens and young adults, ages 14–24, ArtWorks is actively investing in the creative economy. Through job creation that supports local talent and mentorship programs that pair professional artists with diverse teams of young people, their programs foster the development of 21st-century career-readiness skills. ArtWorks has created a vibrant citywide gallery with more than 14,000 public and private art projects over the last 28 years. Among these are more than 300 permanent outdoor murals that contribute to Cincinnati’s rich cultural tapestry, enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. ArtWorks partners with Hamilton County and Talbert House for seasonal apprentice funding. It also receives ongoing support from the City of Cincinnati, the Ohio Arts Council, ArtsWave, and individual donors.
