When muralists Ryan Sarfati and Eric Skotnes were learning about Columbus before painting their 11,000 square foot, 11 stories tall mural at the Graduate Hotel at 750 N High St, Columbus in the Short North Arts District, they learned that Columbus has the second largest Somali community in the United States. Being the children of immigrants, they wanted to celebrate the immigrant experience in the city. During their research, they met Hodan Mohammed, the founder of Our Helpers and knew they had the central piece of their mural in a portrait of her representing those who have the strength and courage to leave their homes to come to Columbus and succeed. A mystical experience of hummingbirds flying around their heads one day brought them to study the birds. They found a direct parallel in their migratory pattern as far as the Somali population traveling to Columbus. A circle of hummingbirds completed the vision that became “The Journey”. Since its completion in June of 2020, ‘The Journey’ has become an iconic mural in the Short North Arts District.
To improve the lives of immigrant and refugee families by connecting and providing resources in all aspects of human services.
Inspire full integration of immigrant and refugee families by connecting Central Ohio through mutual understanding.
Our clients come from different countries and speak different languages. We provide culturally sensitive programs to our clients.
