A High Schooler Who Paints Hope Into the Places That Need It Most
Sometimes art doesn't just decorate a wall — it tells someone they matter.
That's the philosophy behind Color for a Cause (CFAC), a youth-led mural organization founded by Marcus Hulbig, a high school senior from Raleigh, NC. What started as a middle school passion for painting has grown into something that's quietly changing the spaces where people heal.
A Mural for Those Who Need It Most
Marcus's latest project was for Project FIGHT, a program supporting survivors of human trafficking. The design he created isn't flashy — it's intentional. A field of flowers stretching toward distant mountains, with a sunrise emerging behind them.
"The sun rising behind the mountains symbolizes hope and fresh starts," Marcus explains. "Our goal was to create something meaningful without being overwhelming."
For residents in that space — people working through some of the hardest experiences imaginable — that imagery isn't decoration. It's a daily reminder that there's something on the other side.
Art That Belongs to Everyone
What makes CFAC stand out isn't just Marcus's talent — it's the process. He recruits high school volunteers to help design and paint each mural, creating genuine ownership over the finished piece.
"I enjoy spending time with fellow student artists and meeting new people at each location," he says. "The painting process is always fun when everyone — including the organization we're working with — takes part in the design."
Color for a Cause has now completed murals for AMI Kids, the Durham VA Health Care System, multiple schools, and several other nonprofits across Wake County.
The Real Value of Art
Marcus has a simple philosophy that probably resonates with a lot of artists in this community:
"I've always believed the value of an art piece isn't in how it looks, but in how we react to it. Good art should spark conversation and bring people together."
He's still in high school. And he's already figured out what most of us spend careers chasing.
You can follow Color for a Cause at colorforacause.org — and if you're ever in Raleigh, keep an eye on the walls.
