Young Peoria Artists’ Masterpieces raise
$8,100 for “Can Do”

Event: At the Can Do 4:13 Scholarship Fund’s 3rd annual Can Do Arts sale & social, 56 pieces of artwork completed by 3rd and 4th graders at Peoria’s Irving Primary School sold for an average price of $125/each. Throughout this 2005-3006 school year, the Can Do kids studied the works of Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Georgia O’Keeffe, Paul Klee, and others. Their masterpieces were sold at Lindsay’s on Friday, April 21, 2006, and over $8,100 was raised for Can Do. This is an increase from approx. $500 raised in 2004, nearly $3,500 in 2005. The community has really responded to this unique and special opportunity for local kids. In fact, the Can Do Kids also participated in a collaborative project to study black & white photography, and their photos were used to create the first-ever 2007 Can Do Calendar. These will soon be available for $12, at www.CanDo413.com.

Sponsors: Lindsay’s on Liberty graciously provided their room on the corner of Fulton and SW Jefferson to host this special event. Peoria Banking Center provided free radio ads, Jim McComb included Can Do Kids in there TV commercials, WMBD tv and radio provided media time, as did WOAM, WEEK, and WCBU. Thanks to Michael’s Arts & Crafts and Joan’s Trophy for assisting with the presentation of the artwork.

Goal: The goal of the Can Do Arts sale was to raise $6,000 in funds for the Can Do 4:13 Scholarship Fund, as well as help kids develop a Can Do attitude. Not only does taking part in active art classes help develop their self-esteem and discipline, they are able to see and reap financial benefits for their future schooling needs. The event is part of the funding mechanism for the $1,000 scholarships that the Can Do Kids will be awarded when they graduate from high school and transition to post secondary institutions. Nearly 100% of the contributions from the Can Do Arts sale benefit the Can Do scholarships. All expenses are paid by the founder.

Mission: The mission of the Can Do 4:13 Scholarship Fund is to instill a "Can Do" attitude in Irving fourth graders to stay focused on graduating from high school so they can attend college or a technical training institution. The hope is that the "Can Do Kids" will graduate with job skills so that they may become positive, driving forces within their families and community.

Contact Information: For further information about the Can Do Arts sale, please contact us by phone at (309) 678-9607 or visit our website at www.CanDo413.com

All contributions (which are tax deductible) to the Can Do 4:13 Scholarship Fund, the Can Do Walk, and Can Do Arts are managed by the Community Foundation of Central Illinois.