OVERVIEW

American Security and Communications (ASC) and Kush Inc. (KUSH) agreed to host a jointly sponsored SHONA ART EXHIBIT during Black History Month, 2006, to increase awareness and raise funds for people of the Sudan using art as a tool for advocacy. The ASC-KUSH initiative is a unique community development partnership between a minority-owned commercial enterprise and an international charitable organization. Both are locally based entities within adjacent Northwest DC communities--Shepherd Park and Takoma Park DC, historic neighborhoods that attract culturally diverse, socially conscious and politically active residents. Individuals with a shared African heritage and a long-standing involvement in
community development founded ASC and KUSH.

PARTNERSHIP GOAL

The partnership strives to promote solidarity, cross-cultural exchange, mutual learning and sharing of ideas and information that will lead to a greater impact on the lives of the Sudanese. Specifically, the partnership focuses its resources on serving as a bridge for other Americans wishing to provide assistance to the reconstruction efforts in the Sudan and those seeking to discover and learn more about the Shona artists and how they are being empowered to create sculptures and poetry as tools for advocacy.

EXHIBITION TIME-LINE

Monday, February 20^th through Friday, February 24^th, 2006, between 11am-5pm individuals can view the exhibition, purchase sculptures or make contributions. The event will close with a reception on Saturday, February 25^th from 3-7 pm.

LOCATION

7348 Georgia Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20012
at the offices of American Security & Communications

ABOUT THE PARTNERS

ASC is a family-owned, security company, focused on providing customized solutions for residential and commercial security needs by integrating the most advanced, state-of-the art technology and reliable equipment. Conveniently located in Georgia Avenue's Gateway Community, ASC is the only licensed alarm company headquartered in Washington DC.

KUSH is a 501(c)(3) international, charitable organization registered in Delaware, USA and in Nairobi, Kenya with the Sudan Relief and Reconstruction Commission as an indigenous Sudanese NGO, which is providing a vehicle for international participation and support of artistic, cultural and economic development initiatives in Africa, beginning in Sudan and Zimbabwe.

CONTACT INFO:
Sandra Cox, ASC (202) 829-7327
sandra.cox@ascprotects.com, www.ascprotects.com
Jeff Campbell, KUSH (800) 810-5874
kushworld@kushworld.org, www.kushworld.org