YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD HEROES: Retired art teacher proves where there's a WILL, there's a way | Features

WEST PRICE HILL, OH (FOX19) - "We're like a little secret treasure. If you want to be connected, networked and involved, we have the best opportunity for that."

That is one way Pat Bruns, 60, a retired art teacher who calls Price Hill home describes the westside neighborhood. Pat, among other things, is heavily involved in several community action groups that promote the artistic side of Price Hill.

As a young woman growing up in Delhi, Pat attended Oak Hills high school.

"I feel one of Cincinnati's greatest strengths is their neighborhoods."

She completed her Masters in Art Education at Miami University. Pat went on to teach art for 30 years in the Northwest School District. She became a resident of Price Hill after purchasing her Glenway Avenue home in 1976.

When Pat retired from teaching in 2004, the call to community service was right in front of her face.

"There was a sign outside of auto repair business Brogan Boil that read 'Price Hill, a community in conversation about it's future. That sign put the spark in me."

That sign marked the beginning of Pat's relationship with Price Hill Will.

Price Hill Will is an independent organization that focuses solely on comprehensive community development.

The impact of Price Hill Will is not lost on Bruns who says,"Price Hill Will is a community of people that support the ideas of their community. They support creativity."

And the feeling is mutual, according to Price Hill Will Marketing Director Matt Strauss, "Pat has been volunteering with us from the very beginning. She has her hand in everything and she throws her energy behind everything she does. She is a super volunteer."

Bruns is co-chair of the Art Community Action team which gives young people in Price Hill a chance to become creative with their neighborhood pride. One program is a free summer photography workshop for 6-8 graders. The young participants from varied backgrounds will learn to work together while creating awareness for the arts. There are still spots available for the workshop scheduled to take place July 18-22 from 9am-12pm.

Pat was recently added to the Price Hill Will Board of Directors. There is no doubt that Bruns will stay busy with a full list of neighborhood projects including; Art 4 Artists, Cultural Heritage Fest, rebuilding Quebec Heights Elementary School, Swinging Sounds of Summer Concerts, ARTworks murals in the community and organizing Holiday on the Hill.

Pat's great attitude towards her craft and community is summed up in her signature sign off, "I hope you have an artful day!"

Who are Your Neighborhood heroes? Who is making a difference no matter how big or small in your community? Send us their information at community@fox19.com!

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