Saturday mornings are a time when many people take an opportunity to sleep late and relax. This Saturday morning found local artist, Gill Pollard, donating his time and talent to benefit children and families who need a little extra care. At Edible Vibe Cafe in Rocky Mount, every seat was filled and all eyes were on Mr. Pollard as he quietly transformed a blank canvas into a work of art in less than two hours to bring attention the the needs of the children and families served by the Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center.
While Pollard demonstrated his craft with seeming effortlessness, patrons and supporters participated in a silent auction of work Pollard had donated for the event. His generosity did not end with the demonstration and the donation of his work for the auction...he also donated the newly created painting, a previously completed framed painting and a print of his work as door prizes to guests who attended the demonstration and auction. Molly Bratton-Jones, Mary Palmer and Bill Palmer were the happy recipients of Pollard's talent and generosity! Pollard was humble about
his contributions to the advocacy center, but was quick to express his appreciation of John and Karen Schopp, owners of Edible Vibe and Center Stage Catering, for hosting this morning's event and being such strong supporters of the Franklin County community.
A native of Lexington, in 1999 Pollard left a career in technology to realize his dream and pursue the life of an artist. He is a longtime supporter of the Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center and regularly uses his talents to help their efforts in any way he can. His contributions have included everything from painting murals at the previous home of the advocacy program center to donating several works of art for auction to help fund their mission. Pollard tells us he plans to paint murals at the new home of the advocacy center.
The Children's Advocacy Programs of the Blue Ridge is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing court appointed volunteers to serve as advocates for children in judicial proceedings when there are allegations of abuse or neglect. Today's demonstration and silent auction will benefit the Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center's Capital Campaign and will assist in expanding children's crisis services and help to provide space for additional services.
If you would like more information about the Children's Advocacy Program, you can contact Cherie Hall, Director of Development, at 483-5566 or 352-2738, or by e-mail at
hall.cherie@gmail.com.
A picture is worth a thousand words. Take a look at all we have have to say:
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