DAREArts Gala
April 22, 2009

DAREArts held their annual gala on April 22, 2009 at the Liberty Grand, (on Toronto's historic Exhibition Place) - which was transformed into a celebration of spring by renowned Canadian event designer Sinclair Russell (see photo below) and the students of the Interior Design program at Seneca College. This event honoured Karen Kain and Paul Henderson in recognition of their efforts in preventing disadvantaged youth from entering the world of guns and gangs. Also attending was Karen Kain's husband Ross Petty (see past events), Paul Henderson's wife Eleanor, Marcie Ien and artist Charles Pachter. and guest auctioneer Rex Harrington. Charles Pachter unveiled a new painting of Karen Kain! Guests enjoyed a live auction by Rex Harrington, a silent auction and entertainment by ballet dancers and hockey players during the cocktail hour, and were welcomed into the dining room by the 300 spectacular voices of the DAREarts Children's Jazz Choir under the superb leadership of internationally acclaimed master musician and composer, Dr. Barry Harris. After dinner, the Cultural Awards were given to Karen Kain and Paul Henderson, and the DAREarts Leadership Awards were given to six outstanding young graduates of the DAREarts program.

About DAREArts

"DAREarts is a Canadian, not-for-profit charity whose arts education empowers 'at risk' children to become leaders. DAREarts' unique programs work with at risk 9-14 year olds in both 'inner city' and rural areas, including multiple Toronto Mega City areas. The children explore world cultures and history while they themselves paint, sculpt, sing, dance, compose, design, write, act and create, guided by arts professionals. The DAREarts programs also provide much-needed opportunities for children to discover how to express themselves in positive ways and to experience a broader range of activities beyond what is available to them. The children gain leadership skills by returning to their schools and teaching their classmates what they have learned. Celebrating its 13th year, DAREarts influences over 120,000 Canadian children annually."[darearts.com]For more information click on this web page to enter its web site.

The DAREArts gala was a huge success and raised funds for a worthy cause. Check back here for details and mark your calender for next year's Gala! For more information on DAREArts or to donate click on this web page for its web site.

Karen Kain and Paul Henderson

Photographs by G.C. Eyre Article by C. Smith © 2009 All Rights Reserved