Cincinnati Public Schools Receives Major Support through 2025 Community Makeover

Frederick Douglass School and Dr. O’dell Owens Center for Learning students will return to class with exciting updates to their schools thanks to the 2025 Community Makeover, a citywide initiative that brought lasting improvements to the Walnut Hills neighborhood.

Led by the Cincinnati Reds, the project brought together partners including P&G, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati Children’s, GE Aerospace, Kroger, United Way of Greater Cincinnati and the Greater Cincinnati Foundation. Alongside local leaders and volunteers, the team worked to transform public spaces and support student learning.

Volunteers redesigned the playground at Douglass School and created a new STEM lab, large-scale murals and a student garden with upgrades designed to inspire learning and creativity.

Dr. O’dell Owens Center for Learning now features an urban learning garden and outdoor classroom, giving students hands-on experiences in science, wellness and sustainability.

“This Community Makeover will put a lot of smiles on our students' faces. A well-designed community where students can sit in a garden, breathe fresh air and play safely on a new playground promotes positive mental health. We are very grateful,” said Angel Griffin, Frederick Douglass School Resource Coordinator.

The Community Makeover, now in its 16th year, focused on creating long-term impact by improving neighborhood resources. CPS was proud to partner in the effort and grateful for the investment in its students and school communities.