VERO BEACH — Camp Haven, Indian River County’s only transitional shelter for homeless and at-risk men, will hold its first art show on Saturday, Oct. 18. The Restoring Hope Art Show event will be held at the Lighthouse Art and Framing gallery, 1875 14th Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960, from 6-8 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public, food and drinks will be provided at no cost and raffle tickets will be available for a donation to win a piece from each of the artists showing that evening.
One of the featured artists, Wil Harris, will be showcasing his artwork, The Wil Harris Edition, alongside Barbara Petrillo, a local well-known jewelry designer (The Petrillo Collection) and active supporter of local non-profits.
“I am thrilled to be a part of this event and support Camp Haven. I hope it will build more awareness for the organization and the great work they’re doing for our community,” Petrillo said.
A resident for five months, Harris entered Camp Haven’s program due to unfortunate circumstances that left him with no safe place to go. He reached out to the organization after reading about their transformative personal development program.
Shortly after his entry, the staff quickly realized he was different. His artistic talents alone were enough to amaze them, but it was his unwavering dedication and proven commitment to quickly changing his life that made him special. Just three months into the transitional program, Harris applied and was accepted into Indian River State College, now on his way to earning a BA in Business Administration.
“Seizing this new opportunity, he has been determined to stay on the right track, focused on balancing homework, doing volunteer work for Camp Haven and creating art on his free time,” said board president, Lalita Janke. “Wil is a great example of what happens when a person is committed to his transformation process and is given the right tools, support and direction needed to turn their lives around for the better,” she continued.
A collaborative effort between Camp Haven, Barbara Petrillo and Lighthouse Art & Framing, the art show will give the community a chance to show their support of Camp Haven’s efforts by rallying behind one of its residents. “This is a unique opportunity for people to personally meet one of our residents and to experience the power of hope being restored in an individual,” said Lalita Janke.
Camp Haven, Inc. is an Indian River County transitional home that provides supportive living opportunities and education to men committed to rising out of homelessness. Success stories like Harris’ are made possible by the ongoing generosity of individuals, churches and businesses throughout our community.
To see Camp Haven’s current wish list and to find out how you can make a difference in someone’s life today, visit www.CampHaven.net, email outreach@camphaven.net or call (772)-999-3625.
