Support the Arts with Sara Miller

This year on Colorado Gives Day, I'm raising money for Center for the Arts Evergreen. I have always loved the arts. Visual, performing, written--you name it. That moment when you witness someone create something from nothing is what lights a spark inside of me. Working in the arts everyday (especially during COVID) it's become so evident to me how important self expression is. I've had the honor of creating a teen council who brought to life a Colorado Teen exhibition called "Hear Me." Teen artists from all over Colorado were brave and real and put themselves out there by hanging their artwork in CAE's gallery. A mother purchased her son's photo that directly addressed his struggles with mental illness. They shared a tearful hug and she said, "This photograph is the first time I've truly understood what you go through every day." I've stood side by side with an art lover who was rendered speechless by a painting created to represent the emotion and divide that our country has experienced in recent years. He purchased the painting on the spot, and when he finally spoke, his words were, "Never in my life have I been so moved by a piece of art." I've gotten hugs from 10 year olds who created artwork to hang on CAE's wall of support during the BLM rally in our small town. I've eaten popsicles in 90 degree heat with our teen mural campers. They designed and painted a progressive LGBTQ+ pride flag on CAE's shipping container, which greets visitors in our parking lot every day. I've delivered art supplies to assisted living facilities and seen smiles on Zoom when the residents created art that could be given to loved ones they couldn't hug during COVID. The list goes on and on. Center for the Arts Evergreen is more than just an art center. It's a gathering place for inspiration and human connection. The moments listed above are just a snapshot of the life-changing impacts art can have in people's lives. I see it every day and places like Center for the Arts are SO important to ensure that self-expression for people from all walks of life can continue. Please give what you are able to sustain the mission-driven work of Center for the Arts Evergreen.