On Martin Luther King Day (MLK day), January 19th, 2026, The West Orange Arts Council was awarded the Service Award in Art & Entertainment from the West Orange Human Relations Commission, presented by commissioner Dagmar Hobson. This award is given to the Arts Council to recognize this all-volunteer, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization for their continued commitment to the Arts in our community. Chairwoman of the West Orange Arts Council, Patricia Mitrano, and Board Member Christos Kambolis and Councilwoman Tammy Williams, gratefully accepted the Service Award on behalf of the West Orange Arts Council Board, their Members and the entire West Orange Arts Council’s organization.
During Patricia’s acceptance speech, she said, “Art is a universal language. It communicates across cultures, generations, and experiences—often expressing what words alone cannot. Through art and creative expression, we continue to build bridges, foster understanding, and bring people together.” She continued, “This Spirit Award in Art & Entertainment personifies the alignment of values of Dr. Martin King Jr. by supporting unity and participation through volunteering community service to all. Patricia stated, “The West Orange Arts Council remains committed to doing just that—through creativity, inclusion, and community—today and into the future.”
SEE PHOTOS OF WOARTS Receiving Spirit Award on Dr. Martin Luther King Day
The West Orange Arts Council extends its heartfelt gratitude to the West Orange Human Relations Commission for producing a powerful and inspiring Martin Luther King Jr. Day program that celebrated unity, service, and community. The event was a moving tribute to Dr. King’s enduring legacy and a reminder of the importance of standing together through purpose, compassion, and action.
This recognition arrived at a critical moment for the West Orange Arts Council as they are currently facing significant financial challenges and the loss of key funding, making it increasingly difficult to sustain their physical location at the West Orange Art Center. “This Center acts as a creative, inclusive community space that truly belongs to all of us. This honor reaffirmed the importance of our mission and reminded us that our work matters deeply to the community we serve.” – Patricia said.
During Patricia’s acceptance speech, she also said, “The West Orange Arts Council extends its sincere thanks to our friends at the West Orange Human Relations Commission, who once again produced a meaningful and impactful Martin Luther King Jr. Day program celebrating our shared community values. The event served as a powerful reminder of Dr. King’s enduring legacy and the strength found in unity, progress, and collective inspiration.
Dr. King’s words continue to resonate, reminding us that everyone has a role to play:
“Be a bush if you can’t be a tree. If you can’t be a highway, just be a trail. If you can’t be a sun, be a star. For it isn’t by size that you win or fail—be the best of whatever you are.”
On the West Orange Arts Council’s website, it states, “We wish to gain your moral and financial support with an appeal to you and/or your organization for donations to help us continue to grow our financial base, to strengthen our artistic supporting partnerships, and establish the West Orange Arts Center as a cultural beacon. Please make your donation for these considerations and to support the arts. We will be grateful for any amount possible so we may continue to provide yearlong dynamic exhibits, meaningful collaborations, student involvement, and important community connections that bring the diversity of people and those who enjoy engaging in the Arts.
We are also open to collaboration. We work with organizations like the Human Relations Commission, seniors and students, teachers, artists, and creative people from across the region—and we’re eager to build new partnerships. The Arts Center is a welcoming space for creativity, conversation, and shared purpose.”
Patricia concluded her speech by saying, “So today, I invite you to stay connected by attending one of our art and cultural programs, volunteering your time, or supporting us in whatever way you can. We are in the midst of an ongoing effort to save the Arts Center, and every show of support helps keep our creative community space open and active. Thank you again for this honor.”
Any Donors or Supporters who wish to be included in our recognition of thanks may provide their logo to be included in our communication pieces, website, and our annual film festival. See our donor levels for the amount that you are able and willing to make at this time.
The All-Volunteer Board of the West Orange Arts Council include:
Volunteer Chair Patricia Mitrano, Christos Kambolos, Carol Jenkins, Aron Lifshultz, Ken Mandel, Aron Lifschultz, Councilwoman Tammy Williams, and Councilman Joe Krakoviak.
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