On January 13, Amplify gathered business and nonprofit leaders for a meaningful evening centered on creativity, connection, and collective support. at a time when our city is carrying a great deal of heaviness. This arts-focused AMP Session reminded us of the power of beauty, storytelling, and shared humanity to widen our perspective and bring hope. 

The evening began with a musical experience from James Johnson on piano and Christina Westman on violin, representing Light in the Well, a nonprofit creating inclusive performance opportunities for musicians with and without disabilities. Guests also experienced the visual storytelling of A Peace of My Mind, whose traveling exhibit of photographs and stories was displayed in the lobby, inviting reflection and conversation. 

Andrea McMaster, Amplify’s President, opened the evening by reminding guests why Amplify exists to create a space where people are willing to freely offer their ideas, expertise, and connections to uplift others and help nonprofit work thrive, sharing the love of Christ in tangible ways. 

The evening’s keynote speaker, Molly Sanborn, affectionately known as the CheeseBall Chick, shared her story with courage and faith, reminding us that God can use whatever we bring—our platforms, relationships, opportunities, and yes, even cheeseballs—for His purposes.

The focus then turned to the two featured nonprofits. 

A Peace of My Mind, founded by award-winning photographer John Noltner, uses storytelling and art to help people see one another beyond headlines, assumptions, and division. Through photography exhibits, workshops, and facilitated conversations installed in public spaces, the organization creates opportunities for deeper listening and meaningful dialogue. John invited the Amplify community to help expand the organization’s reach by identifying new venues and partner organizations, increasing earned revenue through shared assets, and expanding delivery of learning resources. 

Light in the Well envisions a world of kindness where people of all abilities learn from, appreciate, and embrace one another through music. Founded by a PhD-trained music therapist, the organization brings musicians with and without disabilities together through professional, peer-to-peer performances and programs that foster dignity, belonging, and understanding. The Executive Director shared current challenges and invited the room to brainstorm ways to expand its high school partnership program and generate sustainable revenue through performances. 

As always, Amplify partners responded with action. Through facilitated brainstorming, guests shared ideas, offered connections, and collaborated to help both organizations overcome barriers and step into new levels of growth and influence. 

We are deeply grateful to Tradition Capital Bank for generously sponsoring this AMP Session and helping make space for art, conversation, and impact. 

In a season marked by division and hardship, the evening served as a reminder that when people come together with open hearts and shared purpose, creativity becomes a powerful bridge and hope takes root.