Kelly Mellos is an award-winning artist with a mission and a message. Her work aims to reveal the life force of her subjects to viewers, aspiring to bring humanity closer together and to the planet.  A commitment to artistic excellence is the foundation of Kelly’s work. Kelly’s portrait, figurative and landscape work has shown in national galleries and museums, as well as international exhibitions. Her efforts with Hands of Peace and Rotary International focus on spreading her message globally.
 
Hands of Peace is an interfaith organization that empowers young people to raise their voices as leaders of change. It serves Palestinian, Israeli and American teens, aged 15-19. The program was started in 2002 in Chicago and expanded to San Diego in 2013. There are 3 components:  Summer Program; XL Program and Alumni Club. They aim to train future leaders in the Middle East and in the United States in peace-building skills, as well as to educate American families and communities about the Middle East. There are approximately 30 students in Chicago and San Diego.
 
Through the power of dialogue, Palestinians, Israelis and Americans partner to pursue peace, equality, freedom and justice. Hands of Peace believes the future depends on the leadership of the next generation. The organization creates opportunities for participants, host families and community members to gain the mutual understanding that comes through personal encounters.
 
As part of her presentation, Kelly showed an informative Powerpoint and Enlighten, a beautiful video – links below.
 
Hands of Peace is a Rotary District 5340 supported program. The fourth annual Summer Program will take place July 12-31, with headquarters in Pacific Ridge School in Carlsbad. They are looking for host families and there are lots of other volunteer opportunities.
 
     Website – Hands of Peace: http://www.handsofpeace.org/