welcome
history
The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is an independently operated 501C3 not-for-profit corporation established in 1995 honoring the late Destin matriarch, Mattie M. Kelly (1912-1992). Native Floridians, Mattie and Coleman Kelly were one of Destin’s pioneer families credited with the beginning of the now-famous charter boat fishing fleet and local tourism. Throughout her life she pursued dreams that brought not only progress to Destin, but educational, spiritual and cultural opportunities that Destin still embraces today.
Recognized as one of Northwest Florida’s premier art organizations, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is known for its cultural events and children’s educational outreach programs. As one of the community’s leading cultural charities, MKAF was the first to present outdoor concerts and art festivals. MKAF established All Kinds of Art, an award-winning K-12 education outreach program to inspire children through the literary, performing and visual arts. To date, AKA has partnered with 54 elementary, middle and high schools and United Way agencies impacting over 100,000 students in delivering diverse art education curriculum.
The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) located in Destin, Florida is not supported or affiliated with Northwest Florida State College, its foundation or performing arts center.
mission statement
The mission of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is to be the leading art advocate of cultural arts and student educational outreach serving Okaloosa and Walton Counties in Northwest Florida.
Would you like to make a general donation? If so, click “donate” below.
