The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with local artist Susan Pominville to raise funds for Torch 180, a nonprofit restaurant in Fowlerville where people with disabilities learn the skills needed to work in the restaurant industry.

20 hand-numbered and signed limited-edition prints of Pominville’s original oil painting, SKY, inspired by the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest, are now available for purchase by tapping the button below.

The 12”x18” gicleé reproductions are printed on the highest-quality archival paper. Each of the 20 prints, priced at $250, is signed and numbered by the artist and comes with a certificate of authenticity. Proceeds benefit the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce and Torch 180, a working café and coffee shop that teaches students culinary and management skills to prepare for restaurant jobs and careers.

Torch 180: Helping people make life changes

Torch 180 was founded in 2015 by Rhonda Callahan, who couldn’t accept the fact that local people with disabilities were living in poverty, in part due to limited employability training programs in Livingston County. Based on her experience in the food service industry, she knew that many jobs were going unfilled. To meet this need, she created Torch 180, whose mission is to provide inclusive opportunities for vocational training and work experience for those with disadvantages. 

Callahan chose the name Torch 180 because a torch is a symbol of light, and in dark times, people look for a way forward. “The number 180 represents helping people make life changes in a new, more positive direction,” she explains. 

Torch 180 has mutual benefits for both employees and employers. As one graduate who now works as a dietary aide at Independence Village in Brighton, says, “The people I serve are the main reason I love my job.” 

Garrett Pace, Recruiter at Independence Village, describes what Torch 180 has meant to this retirement community. “Torch 180 helps shine a light on candidates who have the skill—and the heart—to provide the absolute best experience for seniors in our community.” 

For more information on Torch 180 programs and to volunteer or make a donation, go to torch180.org. 

Artist Susan Pominville has created commissioned works to raise funds for other nonprofit organizations through her company, ART Doing Good. For more information on how your organization could use this fundraising approach, email susan@spominville.com or call 517-545-5000. 

Support Touch 180 and the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce by purchasing one of the 20 limited edition prints inspired by Balloonfest – ignite change and own a commemorative piece of art that makes a difference!