About four years ago the Historic Glenwood-Brooklyn Neighborhood Association (HGBNA) decided to increase its visibility in Downtown Raleigh while also having a positive impact in the community. HGBNA is a non-profit, inclusive neighborhood association committed to advancing the vitality and diversity of our historic urban neighborhood located near downtown Raleigh. An idea of a fundraiser to bring together people from all walks in Downtown Raleigh, to celebrate things in downtown, while providing a benefit to a charity in the community was formed, and Downtown Appetite for Art was born.
Now in our 4th Year, we have expanded the event to include volunteers from other downtown neighborhoods and organizations who share our goals. Downtown Appetite for Art is an Art Auction, Silent Auction, Wine & Food celebration focused on Downtown Raleigh, its citizens, neighborhoods, businesses, the arts and our children!
This fantastic charity event is focused on growing the youth of our community through support of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County, with a focus on the arts and how it improves the lives of our children.
Last year we had over 100 event sponsors who donated a variety of items for the Silent Auction including artwork, jewelry, business services, sporting event tickets, trips, gift baskets and gift certificates. Also integral to the success and enjoyment of the event, additional sponsors donated food and wine.
Additionally, more than 35 Artist Sponsors donated art for the silent and live auctions. With over 500 attendees, more than 100 silent auction packages and artworks the event was a fantastic success….raising nearly $65,000!
Why is this event important to us? The Boys & Girls Clubs serve over 3,800 members in Wake County. As the Positive Place for Kids, their mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
Research tells us that the most critical time in young lives occurs after school during the hours between 3 and 8 p.m. when danger – and opportunity – most beckon. Boys & Girls Clubs must make every minute count!
We are trying to be a part of making this happen and BY ATTENDING THE EVENT SO ARE YOU! So please join us at our event this year and be a positive influence for the kids of today!
We are very proud to say that our event has been the primary contributor for all of the art based programs for The Boys & Girls Clubs in Wake County and proceeds from Downtown Appetite for Art have fully funded their arts programs for three years in a row.
Kristin Hackett
