Cockrell is a co-founder of the Findlay Neighborhood Center, which had its grand opening Sunday.

Young artist Ronesse Sparks, 15, paints a star on eight year-old Robert Jones' cheek. (Enquirer photo/GLENN HARTONG)

The center, at 1830 Race St., hopes to unleash the talents of people in this low-income neighborhood by training them in carpentry, masonry and electrical work.

"The people who live here ought to be part of the exciting things going on here," said Cockrell, who will teach many of the construction courses.

Cockrell's partner in the project is Lynda Crane, a professor and chair of the Behavioral Sciences Department at the College of Mount St. Joseph.

Crane bought the 124-year-old building in April.

In terms of dollars, her commitment to the center, and other development projects in the neighborhood, totals $100,000.

"We want to give people a place to hone valuable skills," Crane said. "We want to be a hub of creative activity where developers and residents can launch new initiatives together."

The neighborhood center, officially a nonprofit organization, sits across the street from the newly renovated Findlay Market.

In addition to construction skills, the center will teach residents how to sew - 10 sewing machines were donated by the Gladys Knox Foundation. The idea is to create clothes, curtains and other household items that can be sold at Findlay Market.

The project is looking for volunteers - craftsman, artists or builders who can lend their time and expertise. Crane and Cockrell also are seeking support from corporate sponsors and others who can help with funding.

For more information about the Findlay Neighborhood Center, call (513)-265-0620 or visit www.findlaycenter.org.

E-mail mleingang@enquirer.com