Our Mission
Beats, Boards & Brushes (B³) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting children and families through the transformative power of creativity, storytelling, and community. We believe that true change begins with changing the narrative—how people see themselves, their communities, and their possibilities.
We recognize that self-actualization is only possible when fundamental needs are met. That is why our work combines the inspiration of art, music, gaming, fandom, and narrative-based experiences with efforts to address essential human needs such as food, shelter, clothing, health, employment, a sense of connection, and self-esteem.
Rooted in the philosophy of Ikigai, the Japanese concept of discovering one’s reason for being, we guide individuals toward the intersection of what they love, what they are skilled at, what their community needs, and what can sustain them. This approach ensures that our creative programs also foster lasting purpose and opportunity.
About Us
David Hommy Gonzalez is a life long creative, nonprofit leader, and lifelong artist who has spent more than two decades at the intersection of art, music, storytelling, and community empowerment. As the Founder of Beats, Boards & Brushes, Gonzalez is building a movement that uses creativity not just as a form of expression, but as a catalyst for transformation.
Raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn and now living on Chicago’s South Side, Gonzalez’s journey reflects the same blend of grit, resilience, and imagination that inspires the mission of (B³). His career has taken him from directing youth arts programs at AS220 in Providence, Rhode Island, where he built platforms for adjudicated youth to tell their stories through hip-hop and art, to leading a nonprofit in Chicago, where he developed holistic programs addressing hunger, healthcare, and youth engagement for thousands of families.
Throughout his professional path, Gonzalez has remained true to his creative roots. A hip-hop artist, painter, storyteller, and board game enthusiast, he has produced music, painted canvases, designed comics, and written narratives that merge pop culture with community consciousness. His work on stages such as TEDx Wrigleyville, in collaborations with organizations like Chimera’s Comics, and through grassroots projects like The Rhodeshow has consistently demonstrated his belief in art as a tool for education, healing, and empowerment.
Amplifiers
(B³) Amplifiers are the champions who turn up the volume on our mission. Their support helps us blend art, music, and storytelling with the essentials kids and families need to thrive. By standing with Beats, Boards & Brushes, Amplifiers don’t just give—they make sure every voice in our community is heard loud and clear.
What Your Amplifiers’ Support Goes Toward
Fueling Creative Empowerment: Your Amplifiers' donations help cover the costs of workshops, performances, exhibitions, and collaborative projects that spark self-expression, cultural pride, and creative problem-solving.
Shifting Community Narratives: Their support helps you challenge stereotypes and amplify authentic stories, fostering shared understanding across different cultures and generations.
Enabling Pathways to Self-Actualization: With the stability and confidence your Amplifiers provide, individuals can discover their strengths, set goals, and begin meaningful journeys toward their fullest potential.
By attributing each aspect of your organization’s impact to these supporters, you make their contributions tangible and deeply appreciated.
“Beats, Boards & Brushes is a passion project. An art program for communities to amplify their voices and reshape narratives. It’s an homage to my Momma, who guided me toward music, games, and creativity as a way to fend off the negative influences. This work continues her legacy and the many other Mommas who use creativity as a shield, a tool, and a path forward.”
- David Hommy Gonzalez
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Have a question or want to learn more about Beats, Boards & Brushes (B³)? Feel free to reach out to us. We are here to amplify the narrative until it changes.