‘Hope Event’ generates nearly $70,000 for Devereux Georgia

Devereux Georgia’s “Hope Event: Painting a Picture of Hope” generated nearly $70,000 for youth with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

The event featured specialty crafted food and drinks, live music, and an opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind art pieces many created by Devereux Georgia youth during a silent auction.

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Georgia’s “Hope Event: Painting a Picture of Hope” generated nearly $70,000 for children, adolescents and young adults living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

More than 200 guests gathered at the Marietta Country Club in Kennesaw, Ga. in September for the annual fundraiser. The event featured specialty crafted food and drinks, live music, and an opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind art pieces – many created by Devereux Georgia youth – during a silent auction.

The program also included testimonials from staff, advisory board members and volunteers about why they wanted to work for, or support, Devereux.

“What a wonderful event! I want to thank our sponsors, volunteers and attendees for helping to make the evening a huge success,” said Devereux Vice President of Operations Gwen Skinner. “Listening to the reasons why those who are such an important part of our organization want to help advance our mission was both heartwarming and inspiring. Every day, we strive to provide hope to individuals in need, and this event allows us to generate much-needed funding so we may continue to serve and support those in our care.”

Healing through self-expression

Each year, youth enrolled in Devereux Georgia’s therapeutic art enrichment program paint their “hopes and dreams.” Professional artists and Kennesaw State University art students volunteer to mentor the youth, encouraging them to express themselves through their artwork, some of which is then auctioned off during the Hope Event.

“When it comes to creating art, there are significant therapeutic benefits,” Skinner explained. “Our youth learn how to manage their behaviors and process their feelings in a safe and healthy environment that encourages each individual to find their own unique voice through art. When you look at the pieces created by those we serve, you see their journeys – including the challenges they have overcome and their dreams for the future.”

Learn more about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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