Success!

The HeARTfull Expressions event was a success!!

WE raised $1,562. 20, plus a few boxes full of art supplies!!!

I feel so much gratitude for the vendors believing in this cause and really making this event come to life. Each of you really added to this event with your unique personalities and talents. Thank you so much!!

My family and friends volunteered their time and efforts to bring all the details together. From the baking, shopping, and preparing food to the greeting people, stacking chairs and arranging tables; they really jumped in and made the event seamless! Thank you all for all the big and little things you did to make this a wonderful event!

In the end it doesn't only matter how much money was raised; there is so much more to success than money. I have met such amazing people on this journey. Business people who were encouraging and helpful and giving. Strangers who became friends and cheerleaders for the event. New ideas for art projects have started to emerge. Hearts and minds are being opened to possibilities. New relationships have formed.

More than anything, we built awareness about Free Arts Minnesota. I do think people believe in or are beginning to believe in the healing powers of artistic expression. I do believe the ripples from this event will reach beyond where I can see. I do believe there is more to be done. I do believe the planning for the 2nd annual HeARTfull Expressions Event will begin soon.

It may take one person to have an idea, but it takes a community to make it work!

Thank you!!!

Silent Auction Items

The silent auction will run from 11am-3pm and winners will be called out at 3:30 and you must be present or able to pick-up your item by 4pm that day.

We've got hand-knit items, purses, jewelry, restaurant gift certificates, homemade jam, paintings, sports store gift certificate, coffee, wine basket, home fragrance basket, service certificates etc.

Come join us for a good cause at the HeARTfull Expressions event on May 22nd.

And one more thing, we are going to have Starbucks coffee....mmmmm!

How far?

The consequences of abuse may include:

• inability to be honest or self expressive
• vulnerability to involvement in criminal and deceitful activity
• fear of any kind of touch
• depression, withdrawal and suicide
• distrust toward adults and caregivers
• substance abuse
• failure to thrive

More can be seen here at Free Arts Minnesota.

How far can the ripples reach if a child is given access to the healing powers of artistic expression? What if we can interrupt the cycle of violence, so that these children are given the opportunity to be whoever they want to be in this world? What if we can make a difference in the life of child?

Free Arts Minnesota helped 1,724 children in their Weekly Mentorship Program in 2008. There are more children to be served.

I think it is important to work at both ends from child abuse prevention to after-care.

Join us on May 22nd, for the HeARTfull Expressions event and learn more about Free Arts Minnesota.

Sweet treats!

Come to the HeARTfull Expressions event and enjoy a yummy treat.
There will be breads, bars and trail mixes OH MY!

Only 2 1/2 weeks away. Start looking for the sign in front of the Community Center on Monday May 17th.