The Department of Visual Arts frequently works with local businesses and non-profit organizations to put artistic skills to good use. Empty Bowls and Homework are two ongoing projects that allow students and faculty alike to use their expertise to help benefit and build relationships within the community. 

Since 2012, Empty Bowls has worked to raise money to assist in ending hunger locally. At this event, faculty and students create ceramic bowls to be sold with proceeds going to local non-profits. Proceeds are currently split between Harvest of Hope Food Pantry and the Americus Arts Council. 

Homework is an effort to provide formerly homeless in need with functional home goods to furnish homes. The effort is led my Justin Hodges and student artists as they create new pieces from existing materials and accept donated artwork from local artists.