We are honored to announce that Art of Life Charities (AOLC) raised $14,147.15 for the Haymarket Regional Food Pantry (HRFP) through donations and fundraising around their annual gala held at the Hylton Center in October 2023. Sponsor and longtime HRFP partner, Wegmans, presented us with $5000 during the event.
Our friends at AOLC unveiling the total donation
Wegmans surprised HRFP with $5000 during the event
“The pantry is blessed to be chosen as AOLC’s beneficiary this year,” said Eileen Smith, HRFP Executive Director. “Working with AOLC has been nothing short of an absolute pleasure. They have been devoted to recognizing our work since the very beginning of our partnership.”
AOLC is a Virginia-based 501(c) nonprofit organization dedicated to employing the arts to support communities in need. Each year AOLC selects one beneficiary and raises money for them through an art-centric event. In 2023, AOLC’s goal was to top their inaugural fundraising efforts of close to $10,000 last year. AOLC blew that goal out of the water in 2023 with the help of sponsors and donors!
Kim is the first (and only) African American Poet Laureate for PWC, Manassas & Manassas Park
“AOLC is honored to be able to support the dedicated volunteers of HRFP and the amazing work they are doing for our community,” said Kelly Haneklau, AOLC Founder and President. “An added bonus is being able to help a fellow women-led, all-volunteer, human services 501(c)3 nonprofit. Lifting each other up elevates the community.”
This year’s gala starred American Idol finalist Aaron Kelly, and was emceed by local Poet Laureate Emerita Kim B Miller. There was beautiful, original art available for auction, delicious hors d’oeuvres, dinner, drinks, dessert, live entertainment, guest speakers, music, dancing and of course, community spirit!
For more information about AOLC, please visit https://artoflifecharities.org/about-us
Board Member at Large, Lynn Williams and Inventory & Receiving Coordinator, Cindy McCormick holding custom HRFP cookies made just for the gala