Art as a therapeutic outlet is hardly a new endeavor. Many famous paintings or sculptures have been born out of stressful or challenging times in an artist’s life. However, the personal healing and subsequent community benefit derived from the pieces of art up for sale at Mel Trotter Ministries’ annual Art and Experience Auction is a dual gift to people who are facing homelessness. It provides the guest at Mel Trotter with a safe outlet for their artistic talents and the money generated from the sale of the artwork goes toward the Art Ministry program at West Michigan’s largest shelter.
“I love participating in the art classes at Mel Trotter and having a dedicated space to express myself and create many different forms of art,” said Jessica*, a guest at Mel Trotter. “On harder days, working on my art gives me a sense of purpose and positivity that brighter days are ahead.”
The Art & Experience Auction, a fundraiser in which works of art and local experiences are auctioned off, was first held in 2022. The event has an array of artistic items, some produced by guests at Mel Trotter Ministries, and others produced or purchased by supporters of Mel Trotter Ministries. The artist “FiaRox” is one of them.
“I like to paint and I like to help people,” said the young artist, whose full name is Sophia McInerney. “By donating to the art auction I get to do both.” Last year, the 10 year old Rockford area elementary student donated two paintings to the auction which ended up generating more than $200. This year she also plans to donate two pieces, titled Highland Go Seek and Rainbow Trees.
“We’re blessed to have people like Sophia and so many others in the community who are willing to donate items to this auction and then show up and bid on those items,” said Adrienne Goodstal, President at Mel Trotter Ministries. “Our mission is driven by the goodwill of the community and the almighty power of Jesus Christ. It’s truly amazing to watch as those two forces join together.”
This year’s event will be held at 6:00 p.m. on April 18th at the Goei Center, at 818 Butterworth SW in Grand Rapids. The event will feature refreshments and an hors d’oeuvre style dinner. Organizers plan to feature more than 90 works of art and experiences at some the area’s top attractions. The event includes an online silent auction that begins on April 11th and culminates the night of the 18th, as well as a live auction.
As someone who turned to Mel Trotter in a time of great need, Greg* has a personal and powerful perspective.
“I see the number of people coming to the shelter each night for help. Young, old, men, women, children. And I see how caring and compassionate the staff is as they provide food, shelter and support. So my feeling is, I want to do anything I can to help both the Mel Trotter team and other guests like me,” said Greg.
There’s no cost to attend the Art & Experience Auction but you must register in advance to participate. You can do so by clicking here.
*Names are changed to protect guest privacy
