From nature to classrooms, COLORFUL COMMUNITIES projects brighten local areas

Published : 15-May-2023

In 2023, the COLORFUL COMMUNITIES® program and the employee volunteers who make it possible, set out to create impactful transformations in PPG communities worldwide. In March and April 2023, three projects did just that to provide bright new surroundings in Huangshan City, China; Ichida-cho, Toyokawa City, Japan; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.

“With every Colorful Communities project, we tap into the needs of local communities to provide the greatest impact where the greatest need is present,” said Malesia Dunn, executive director, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility. 

“The most recent projects draw upon local design influences, nature and education.”

Read on for highlights from these Colorful Communities projects.  

Asia Pacific

A group of nearly 60 employee volunteers lived our purpose to protect and beautify the world during a Colorful Communities project in Linhe Village, Huangshan City, China. Inspired by local influences, the project was designed with a variety of themed patterns based on the architectural characteristics of Linhe Village.

The group transformed the walls in the residential and public areas of the village with a colorful makeover, including renovating a children’s playground. Volunteers also picked up trash and set up signs along the trail, aiming to promote public awareness of and responsibility for environmental protection.

Meanwhile, PPG volunteers completed a project at Akatsukayama Park in Ichida-cho, Toyokawa City, Japan. Aiming to create a vibrant space, different species of Japanese native wildlife were painted in PPG colors and came to life on the exterior wall, echoing the natural scenery of the park. Such a vivid animal world can evoke a respect for life and raise awareness of the importance of the environment to the survival of animals. 

United States and Canada

In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, 25 of our Environment, Health and Safety leaders painted classrooms and walls at New Century Careers to mark National Volunteer Week.

The nonprofit manufacturer and technical skills development organization provides inclusive access to technical training opportunities, while helping employers find and develop technicians seeking purpose, passion and success in the workplace.

To learn more about how PPG employee volunteers beautify and transform communities around the world, visit ppg.com/about-ppg/en-US.