Celebrating Community and Creativity at the Jazz & Joy Brunch 2026
- Breana Newell
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read

On April 25, 2026, the ENA Foundation Inc brought together a vibrant group of supporters, artists, educators, families, and community leaders for their 1st Annual Jazz and Joy Brunch. This event was more than just a meal; it was a gathering that celebrated youth empowerment through arts education support and community connection. Held at Nichols-Bethel United Methodist Church in Odenton, Maryland, the brunch created a warm, inviting space where creativity and purpose came alive.
Guests enjoyed live jazz music, engaging conversations, and a chance to support the youth arts nonprofit’s mission to nurture creativity and open doors for young people through arts mentorship programs and youth arts scholarships. The Jazz and Joy Brunch showcased how a community arts event can inspire and uplift, making a real difference in the lives of youth in Maryland.
Bringing People Together Through the Arts
This Jazz and Joy Brunch was designed to be a gathering where people could connect around a shared passion for arts education support and youth empowerment. This community arts event was not just a fundraiser but a celebration of the power of creativity to build strong bonds and open opportunities.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees enjoyed live jazz performances provided by Count the Cost Band that set a joyful tone. The music was more than entertainment; it was a reminder of the arts’ role in inspiring young minds. Guests also took part in a silent auction, with proceeds supporting the ENA Foundation Inc’s youth arts scholarship programs. These scholarships provide vital resources for young artists to pursue their dreams and develop their talents.
The event highlighted the importance of mentorship and community encouragement. By supporting arts mentorship programs, the ENA Foundation Inc helps young people gain guidance and confidence, which are essential for success both in the arts and beyond.
Celebrating Youth Achievement & Artistic Excellence
One of the most inspiring moments of the brunch was recognizing individuals whose passion, leadership, and dedication continue to make an impact through the arts.
McKinley Gray
A junior at Annapolis High School who received support toward participation in the prestigious Mount Sinai Acting Program. McKinley has spent years developing her passion for acting and continues pursuing opportunities that will help shape her future in the performing arts.

Virgil Boysaw
Director of the Excel Academy Legacy Band and dedicated music educator whose mentorship and leadership continue inspiring young musicians through arts education and performance opportunities.

These recognitions represented the heart of ENA Foundation’s mission — investing in young people and supporting pathways for growth, creativity, and success.
Impact of the ENA Foundation Inc in Odenton Maryland

As a scholarship foundation Maryland residents can rely on, the ENA Foundation Inc has a strong track record of supporting youth arts nonprofits and educational initiatives. The Jazz and Joy Brunch reinforced this commitment by bringing together donors and community members who share a vision for youth empowerment nonprofit work.
The event demonstrated how arts education support can transform lives. For example, several young artists who have benefited from the foundation’s scholarships shared their stories during the brunch. Their experiences showed how access to arts mentorship programs and financial support can unlock potential and open new pathways.
This community arts event also served as a platform to announce upcoming programs and initiatives. The ENA Foundation Inc plans to expand its reach in Odenton Maryland nonprofit circles by launching new workshops, mentorship opportunities, and scholarship offerings in the coming year.
Honoring the Vision Behind the Event
A special acknowledgment goes to Esther Parker, Board President of ENA Foundation Inc., whose vision and dedication helped bring Jazz & Joy Brunch to life. Her commitment to creating opportunities for youth through education, mentorship, and the arts continues to shape the mission and impact of ENA Foundation.
During the event, Esther shared the importance of creating spaces where young people feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to pursue their passions and dreams. Her vision for Jazz & Joy Brunch centered around building stronger community connections while creating meaningful opportunities that directly support youth initiatives.
Because of that vision, this event became a powerful reflection of community, creativity, and purpose.
The People Who Helped Make This Event Possible
ENA Foundation Inc. extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of Jazz & Joy Brunch 2026.
Special thanks to:
Count the Cost Band
For providing an unforgettable live jazz experience that elevated the atmosphere throughout the afternoon
The Omelette Guys Catering
For delivering an exceptional brunch experience and outstanding hospitality
Nichols-Bethel United Methodist Church
For graciously hosting the event and supporting the ENA Foundation mission
Our Volunteers, Donors & Supporters
Thank you to every attendee, donor, silent auction contributor, volunteer, and board member who helped make this event meaningful and impactful
Your support helps ENA Foundation continue providing scholarships, youth arts opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and community programming.
Supporting the Future Through Arts and Education
The Jazz and Joy Brunch 2026 was a clear example of how a community arts event can create lasting impact. By bringing people together to celebrate creativity and support youth arts scholarships, the ENA Foundation Inc strengthens the foundation for future generations.
Supporting a youth empowerment nonprofit like ENA Foundation Inc means investing in dreams and building a community where young artists can thrive. The brunch showed that when donors and community members unite around arts education support, they create opportunities that extend far beyond a single event.
If you want to help shape the future of arts mentorship programs and youth arts nonprofits in Maryland, consider joining the ENA Foundation Inc’s efforts. Your support can help provide scholarships, mentorship, and educational resources that empower young people to reach their full potential.
Together, we can build a stronger, more creative community where every young person has the chance to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for being part of this journey with the ENA Foundation Inc. Stay connected to learn about upcoming events and ways to get involved in supporting youth arts scholarships and arts education support in Odenton Maryland.
To stay connected with upcoming events, scholarship opportunities, youth initiatives, and community programs, visit: www.enafoundationinc.org
Follow ENA Foundation Inc. on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for future updates and opportunities to support the mission.












































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