2026 brought awesome opportunities for me to be able to play a small role in donating art work to a big amazing cause! I am so happy to share that my painting “Cherry on Top” and “Sprinkles” were some of the pieces selected for a fundraiser for the Dallas Childrens Advocacy Center. The DCAC helps children who were victims of assault to regain their voices, feel protected through court trials, and know that they are loved and safe.

The gala, held on Saturday Sept 12 2026, raised $1.2 Million in funding through art sales and donations.

The evening was a bright and bubbly social hour of viewing art, followed by a seated dinner and live auction. I had the most pleasant jump scare when one of the speakers spoke specifically about my painting, the joy and the respite that fleeting moments life offers. I love to be able to donate work, but at times get nervous wondering, will anyone else like this? I’m glad my paintings will not only be enjoyed in their new homes, but also that the money went to the DCAC.

event chairs at the seated dinner and live auction

A gallery wall of art sponsored by Galleri Urbane

Attendees view a gallery wall with small artworks

The stories of survivors of abuse are heart breaking, contributing a painting seems like such a small action. I have hope though that by many people contributing small parts, big actions and help can happen. One story shared was on prevention, learning what safe and unsafe touch is as a child. That type of lesson, taught by a teacher was funded by advocates for the prevention of abusing children. You can find more about the DCAC by visiting dcac.org
I look forward to being able to contribute next year to the DCAC, as well as continuing to contribute to other charities. These types of large evens are always impressive, because they require so many hands to make it work. So many local organizations donated to the event, I thought it was clever that Sewell car dealership donated valet services and The Mahjong Line donated Bird Bam cookies to end the night, it was awesome to see how diverse the donors were to support this large event. I owe a huge shout out to Allison Gaughan for sharing this event with me, and helping to organize this event, the artists, and so much more that went on behind the scenes.

artworks by Joey Brock and Andrea La Valleur-Purvis

Artworks by Desiree Vanecia and Katie McKay

Artworks by Jessica Vollrath and Allie Regan Dickerson

After the evening I spent time thinking about the time I’ve given back to local organizations, thinking about how I can be more intiontal to set aside time for creating works that can benefit local organizations. My work life crosses over into my personal life frequently because I am an art teacher, and working artist. I have found ways to fundraise for the classroom. I think the latest total I came to was over $80,000 in grant funding and donations for students. I went back and added up the totals I have raised for local charities and I am just under $7,000. I look forward to focusing on raising the number this October during open studios and selling work that will sustain the practice and go towards the Sandy Hook foundation for ending gun violence.