Raising Awareness and Funds to Support Arts Education

On May 12, 2012, The Foundation @ FCOE in partnership with EECU and K-Jewel hosted heARTbeat: a fundraiser for the Arts in Fresno County Schools featuring the performance paintings of artist David Garibaldi. David, who is currently a contestant on the national America’s Got Talent show, wowed the crowd with his personal testimony of overcoming obstacles in his youth to find his own talent.

The evening’s highlight was Garabaldi’s dramatic creation of four original iconic paintings that were auctioned to the highest bidder. heARTbeat also included a student art element. Outstanding local art students and their teachers were recognized with a special reception and exhibit at K-Jewel Art Gallery during Fresno’s ART HOP. The unique student artwork was based on the theme: “Young people and the arts: the heARTbeat of our community.” Participants left both evening events with a greater understanding of how arts education plays a critical role in the lives and futures of our local youth.