Together We Care Gala: A Night Where Art, Community, and Compassion Meet

This year, We Care Arts is proud to present the Together We Care Gala, an elevated reimagining of the beloved Black & White Gala. Now designed to feel like an upscale art opening, the event celebrates creativity, collaboration, and the healing power of artistic expression.

For months, We Care Arts’ artist‑clients have been working side‑by‑side with professional community artists to create original works of art that will be featured in both live and silent auctions during the gala. This marks the second year of these powerful collaborations—partnerships that blend skill, storytelling, and shared humanity.

A total of 22 artist pairs will showcase their creations, each piece reflecting not only artistic talent but also the meaningful relationships formed throughout the process.Get a Sneak Preview: Friday, February 6

Before the gala officially opens, the community is invited to enjoy an exclusive first look at the collaborative artwork. On Friday, February 6, We Care Arts will host a special preview reception during Front Street’s First Friday event. Guests can explore the artwork created by the artist pairs, meet some of the collaborators, and enjoy light refreshments in a relaxed, gallery‑style setting.

This preview offers a unique opportunity to experience the heart of the Together We Care initiative up close—before the excitement of the live and silent auctions begins.

Art That Tells a Story

The heart of the Together We Care Gala lies in the stories behind the artwork. Each collaboration is unique, shaped by the personalities, experiences, and emotions of the artists involved. When we asked community artists to share what the experience meant to them, their reflections were moving, personal, and deeply inspiring.

One such story comes from community artist Terry Hitt, who partnered with Lawrence, a We Care Arts artist‑client navigating a difficult time in his family.



“Lawrence was concerned about his mother who was struggling with cancer. And so, I thought, well, maybe he’d like to give her some flowers on a painting,” Terry shared. “We decided on some zinnias which were growing in my backyard. I brought in some samples, and he would do a flower smudge, and I’d do some decorative leaf work around it.”

Their collaboration blossomed into something even more meaningful.

“I would give him some colors to fill in between the pieces. And finally, we got around to the idea that he wanted to express some thoughts for his mother. He’s written into the painting in a number of places—thoughts of goodwill and good cheer—trying to encourage his mother in her struggle with cancer. We had a great time working on it because it was so spontaneous.”

Another community artist, Marsha Pippenger, shared how the experience surprised and inspired her.

“I’m not a natural volunteer, if that makes sense. But then, I found myself saying ‘yes’ I would do it again. And now, I’m sure after this year that I definitely will come back. And it was really enlightening and gratifying meeting people who come here for lots of different reasons and creating the work together and collaborating — that was really fun.”

These stories remind us that art is more than what we see—it’s what we feel, what we share, and what we create together.

A Celebration of Creativity and Community

This year’s gala invites guests to experience the artwork in a gallery‑style setting, complete with:

• An art exhibition featuring all of the collaborative pieces
• Live and silent auctions offering guests the chance to take home meaningful, one‑of‑a‑kind works
• An elevated atmosphere inspired by contemporary art openings
• A celebration of the artists, their stories, and the community that supports them

Every ticket, every bid, and every moment at the Together We Care Gala helps sustain We Care Arts’ mission: empowering individuals through the healing power of art.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening

The Together We Care Gala is more than an event—It demonstrates the impact of creativity and compassion coming together. We invite you to be part of this extraordinary night, to witness the artwork, meet the artists, and support the programs that make these collaborations possible.

Mark your calendar, bring your curiosity, and prepare to be inspired. This is a celebration you won’t want to miss.