For two days in June, the “Art from the Heart” silent auction brought Cypress Village residents together to interact, socialize and support a common cause: relief for victims of the war in Ukraine.
The action, inspired by the Cypress Village Visual Arts Group, raised more than $10,000 for Doctors Without Borders, a leading organization providing aid in Ukraine. On June 15 and 16, more than 100 donated items were displayed in the lobby of the community where residents, employees and visitors were able to place bids and donate to the cause.
“I have always felt that Cypress Village residents were very special people,” said Sue Michalson, co-chair of the Visual Arts Group, “and it was clear from the conversations I was overhearing that people were extremely upset and wanted to do something to help the people of Ukraine. I asked the members of the Visual Arts Group if they could think of a way, we, with our special talents, could raise money to support the Ukrainian people and we all agreed that yes, we could create something special. Thus, was born Art from The Heart.”
More than 100 items were handmade and donated for the auction. Donations included artwork, photography, needlework and quilts that were all made by Cypress Village residents. Members of the Visual Arts Group were present in the lobby to answer questions, direct guests and collect donations for the duration of the auction. A “Wine and Winners” celebration was held at the closing of the auction while the winners were announced. Residents gathered in the lobby, eager to hear if their bid was the winning bid. After the show, members of the Visual Arts Group announced that more than $10,000 had been raised and would be donated to Doctors Without Borders.
“It has been exciting as well as challenging,” said Michalson. “But so many have pitched in that the incredible teamwork turned work into joy, it has been deeply satisfying for me and for all involved.”
Cypress Village is a continuing care-retirement care community in Jacksonville. Located adjacent to the Mayo Clinic, Cypress Village has beautifully appointed homes and apartments on a 120-acre campus.
For more information, call 904-223-6100.
