The Washington DC public school system is in serious disrepair, and has been so for many years. Children that live in the lower socio-economic areas are struggling to receive the well balanced education every child deserves. DC Scores is a small organization (less than 10 extremely hardworking staff members) that has made a huge impact on the lives of hundreds of children, as an affiliate of the America Scores network. America Scores is the nation’s largest after-school soccer and literacy program, and with the mission statement, “to inspire urban youth to lead healthy lives, be engaged students, and have the confidence and character to make a difference in the world,” it’s easy to see how they got there.
The second annual Inspired Art Gala, an evening of voice and vision fundraiser was held at the Corcoran Gallery of Art, and featured a silent auction where attendees could bid on the work of local and national artists. The special nature of the displayed artwork was that each piece was inspired by the poetry of a DC Scores young talent. Many patrons were touched by the displays, and it showed in the event’s $73,000 net gain, over $41,000 more than the previous year’s gala.
When throwing an event that has both adult and children attendees it can be complicated to find a food and beverage medium to suite both parties; however Ridgewell catering served both groups perfectly with a selection of kid friendly and adult delicious sliders. The stand out option was the mini hot dogs topped with a sweet pepper jelly, although the juicy lump crab cake slider was a close second. The beverage table included a full bar, as well as sports inspired coolers where the kids could serve themselves drinks such as homemade lemonade or a delightful watermelon punch.
After a few hours of mingling, guests were led into an auditorium where they were treated to the performances by DC Scores’ standouts poets as well a performance by 2011 Grammy nominated artist, Carolyn Malachi, who sang a beautiful rendition of Over the Rainbow.
A special thanks to Amy Nakamoto, Cielo Contreras, and Jake Lloyd whose passion and dedication to this cause led to such a wonderful and successful event and overall program.
To see a complete list of student artwork and to donate, go to the Scores DC website.
