Sturgeon Heights student organizes art auction fundraiser
By Chris Baur July 17, 2008 |
Caitlin MacHutchon has always wanted to help people.
When she heard about the suffering of those living with HIV/AIDS in Africa, she knew she had to do something about it.
“Helping people is in my nature,” said Caitlin, a Grade 12 student at Sturgeon Heights Collegiate.
“And when I found out just how many people in Africa were suffering from AIDS, I had to take the initiative to get something started.”
So Caitlin began organizing a non-profit silent art action, called Stone Broke, to be held at the Cre8ery Gallery at 125 Adelaide St. May 30 and 31.
The auction will feature over 27 pieces of art donated by 20 local artists.
“What’s great about the show is that it won’t just be paintings,” said Caitlin.
“There’s all kinds of different art that will be showcased.”
The pieces range from paintings to modern art to pottery and photography.
All proceeds raised will go the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
The Stephen Lewis Foundation specializes in four areas to help those living with HIV/AIDS. They provide: care at the community level for women, assist orphans and children, assist the grandmothers who are left looking after the children, and support associations of people living with the virus.
“I think the foundation is perfect to raise funds for,” said Caitlin.
“We’re very lucky where we live and sometimes tend to take things for granted. We don’t always see the hardships others go through.”
Brian Hull is a social studies teacher at Sturgeon Heights Collegiate and had a big hand in guiding and giving feedback to Caitlin.
“This really is all her initiative,” Hull told Canstar.
“She came to me with this idea and said, ‘I want to help people.’ She’s just one of those students whose not afraid to stare a challenge in the face.”
Hull has been a strong supporter of the Stephen Lewis Foundation for years.
“This year alone, the school has so far raised over $6,000 for them through various fundraisers.”
Caitlin is looking forward to the art show.
She hopes to raise over $1,000, but adds, “over $5,000 would blow my socks off.”
This is also her first fundraising initiative
“I can’t wait. I know it’s going to be a success. Everybody has really come together to show their support.”
For more information on the upcoming Stone Broke art auction, call the Cre8ery Gallery at 510-1623
