Empowering Youth Through the Arts: The Vision of Natalie Frazier Allen and The Arts Empowerment Project | Oui Talk Raw

 

Natalie’s career path is deeply rooted in her commitment to protecting and uplifting those in need. Before founding TAEP in 2011, she served as Chief of the Domestic Unit in the Attorney General’s Office for the District of Columbia. In this role, she addressed domestic violence cases, working to ensure justice and safety for affected families. Her work in this capacity strengthened her belief in the importance of support systems for children facing trauma. In Charlotte, she took this commitment further by becoming a Guardian ad Litem volunteer, where she represented the best interests of abused and neglected children in court. This hands-on experience in advocating for youth inspired her vision for TAEP.

 

TAEP emerged as a natural extension of Natalie’s passion for empowering children through positive, creative outlets. TAEP offers high-quality arts programming, enrichment experiences, and social-emotional development to children in need. These programs are designed to provide more than just artistic skills; they open doors to resilience and personal growth. TAEP’s belief that the arts can be a powerful tool for healing is backed by national studies that show participation in creative activities can help mitigate the effects of childhood trauma. For many children, the arts offer a path to greater academic achievement, improved social interactions, and emotional stability, transforming their lives in ways that traditional interventions may not.

 

Natalie’s influence extends beyond her work with TAEP. She serves as chair of the Board of Trustees for the Mint Museum, a prestigious cultural institution in Charlotte. This role allows her to merge her love for the arts with her leadership skills, helping guide the museum’s mission and outreach. Natalie has also been active on the boards of the Women’s Impact Fund and the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture, demonstrating her commitment to both the arts and the broader Charlotte community. Her leadership positions in these organizations reflect her belief in the power of art to create positive change, not only for individuals but for society as a whole.

 

Natalie’s educational background laid the foundation for her achievements. She earned her Juris Doctor (JD) degree from The George Washington University’s National Law Center and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Spelman College. Today, she resides in South Charlotte with her husband and their two children, continuing her work to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

 

One of the key events that support TAEP’s mission is the annual SHINE Fundraiser. This year’s event, SHINE 2024, will take place on October 16, 2024, at The Mint Museum Uptown. This event promises to be a night of inspiration and creativity, celebrating the transformative power of the arts. By attending, guests will not only enjoy a memorable evening but will also be investing in the future of vulnerable youth. The funds raised will directly support TAEP’s programs, providing artistic opportunities that foster resilience, broaden horizons, and build essential life skills for the children it serves.

 

An independent study by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s School of Social Work has highlighted the impact of TAEP’s programming. The study found that students who participated in TAEP’s pilot program experienced significant personal growth. They developed educational and career goals, improved peer interactions, engaged more deeply with their communities, and gained valuable life skills. Most importantly, these children discovered healthy emotional outlets and grew more confident, showing the power of the arts to change lives.