When I met with Richard Hill, Board Member and Treasurer of The Carhill Scholarship for the Visual and Performing Arts, it was immediately clear how deeply the arts shape his life. Sitting across from him at The Willcox, his passion came through not only in his words but also in the rhythm and energy with which he spoke. An artist and musician himself, Hill believes that the arts are not a luxury but a necessity, one of the great forces that bind communities together. “They touch our souls; they provide connection and they bring unity among all types of people,” he said with conviction.
That belief is at the heart of The Carhill Scholarship, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the development of high school and college students who are pursuing their love of the visual and performing arts. Founded by Peter Carrocci, Richard Hill and Denise Wyatt, the organization seeks to ensure that young people with a passion for creativity are not hindered by a lack of resources or guidance. Their mission is ambitious yet deeply personal to nurture the next generation of artists, musicians and performers by giving them the tools, mentorship and opportunities they need to grow.
What sets The Carhill Scholarship apart is its comprehensive approach. It does not simply offer financial aid though scholarships and assistance remain central to its mission. Instead, the organization has created a wide-ranging support system. Students are connected with mentors who can guide them through the challenges of artistic study and professional development. Workshops provide practical training and new skills. Exposure opportunities allow students to showcase their talents in real-world settings. This blend of financial, educational and personal support helps students not only pursue their studies but also develop confidence in their creative identities.
Hill emphasized how intentional the nonprofit is in its work. “We don’t just hand out scholarships and step back,” he explained. Instead, they take a hands-on approach, collaborating with local schools, guidance counselors, parents and the students themselves to understand exactly what is needed. “Every young artist has different circumstances and different obstacles. We want to meet them where they are and walk alongside them.” This philosophy ensures that their support is not one size fits all but rather tailored to each student’s journey.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the organization is its mentorship program. The Carhill Scholarship pairs students with established artists and musicians who can offer training, encouragement and real-world perspective. These mentors do more than teach technique; they model what it means to live and work as a creative professional. For young people, many of whom are at a crossroads in their education and life, this guidance is invaluable. It can be the spark that helps them believe in the possibility of a career in the arts.
The nonprofit also places a strong emphasis on collaboration and community involvement. By forging relationships with schools and arts organizations, The Carhill Scholarship helps integrate support for the arts into the broader fabric of the community. Their work is not only about helping individuals but also about creating a culture in which the arts are valued and celebrated.
Listening to Hill, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. His vigor underscored the truth that art is not just about self-expression; it is about building bridges. As Hill said, “The arts make us better. They remind us who we are.” Thanks to the vision of Carrocci, Hill and Wyatt, and the ongoing work of this passionate nonprofit, young artists in our area will have the chance to step boldly into their futures, carrying with them the beauty, unity and connection that only the arts can provide.
Every young artist has different circumstances and different obstacles. We want to meet them where they are and walk alongside them.