Our mission is to build a better community by sharing arts with all citizens of Roanoke, Va., and the region. CommUNITY ARTSreach works to ensure that young people are valued for who they are and empowered to achieve their potential.

OUR VISION

CommUNITY ARTS-reach is a nonprofit organization recognized for offering the citizens of Roanoke, Virginia, and the region an enhanced appreciation of the arts. CommUNITY ARTS-reach envisions a community where no young person experiences violence, all young people have the opportunity to thrive, and the systems that oppress them are dismantled.


The youth, young adults, and diverse and underserved populations of the community are also active participants and supporters of the arts and regularly attend events. CommUNITY ARTS-reach initiates cooperative ventures with many organizations within the community and the region, resulting in a broad and stimulating array of arts offerings supported by education.

Our History

A Message from Our Founder, Bernadette BJ Lark:

I believe we all have a role in healing our communities—ensuring they are safe, livable, and accessible for all. We must keep our eyes on the prize and ask ourselves, "Who’s missing, and why?" True change comes from meaningful connections, collective action, and a shared commitment to uplifting one another. Art is a universal language—it’s not an afterthought or an accessory. It is the foundation of cultural expression, healing, and progress.

Since 2005, I have worked alongside local educators, artists, and leaders to serve families throughout the Roanoke Valley. CommUNITY ARTS-reach was born out of a need to empower youth, preserve culture, and create spaces where art becomes a tool for activism, education, and transformation.

“We have a destination,
A place far away from racism and hate.
Despite what this nation taught me,
We are different, but equal.
”
— Bernadette BJ Lark
“Honor our ancestors,
Earn the respect of future generations,
And be willing to be transformed
Through service and action.
That willingness is the prize.”
— Mary Hooks

Key Educators, Artists, and Directors

  • Bernadette BJ Lark (Founder, Director)

    Bernadette BJ Lark is the founder and artistic director of CommUNITY ARTS-reach, with 35+ years of experience as an artist, vocalist, and composer. She holds an MBA, BBA, and Master’s studies in education and currently serves as a Program Organizer at Roanoke Democracy Center and a youth educator at Jefferson Center Music Lab. A dedicated activist, she has worked with ARTivism Virginia, the Poor People’s Campaign, and Roanoke City Public Schools.

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  • Polly Branch (President)

    Polly Branch is a painter, sculptor, and community social and eco-justice advocate of thirty-five years in arts and local community relations. Through educational festivals, community art projects, commissions, and special afterschool projects, Polly has collaborated with many individuals and groups. Master in Arts, BA in Biology, and extensive studies in theology and personal healing modalities. A friend who holds visions, however long it takes, to increase the potential for a thriving creative community for all.

  • DeRon Lark (Executive Member)

    DeRon Lark is a pianist, educator, and community leader with over 25 years of experience in music and ministry. He has served as a lead pianist for multiple Roanoke-area churches and is currently Minister of Music at Green Temple Holiness Church and Mt. Zion AME. As Musical Director for CommUNITY ARTS-reach, he mentors young artists and fosters creativity in the community.

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  • Pam Banks (Executive Member)

    Pam Banks is deeply committed to serving the Roanoke Valley in meaningful and inspiring ways. As Treasurer of CommUNITY ARTSreach, she plays a vital role in supporting the organization’s mission. Her current focus is on fundraising efforts and expanding the annual production of The Nativity, aiming to bring this cherished performance to a larger audience and a premier Roanoke venue.

  • Cathy Carter (Executive Member)

    Cathy Carter, a dedicated educator and mother from Roanoke, is honored to serve as Secretary for CommUNITY ARTSreach. With a passion for cooking, baking, and traveling, her talents span many fields. She also volunteers with the Friends of Washington Park, contributing to the restoration of the historic Caretaker’s Cottage in Booker T. Washington Park.