Day: Twenty Seven

Organization: Venice Family Clinic

Activity: Fundraiser Prep

I am no skateboarder! In fact, the things scare the crap out of me. I remember as a kid we had one in the garage and I tried getting on it a few times, but didn’t have much luck. I wasn’t much of a daredevil as a kid, not that I am now — although I am far more willing to try things now than back in the day. But, I have to say I have always been fascinated by the skills so many people demonstrate when they are on those four wheels.

Well, those four wheels and the “deck” that sits on top of them gave me a reason to volunteer today. I helped set up a fundraiser at which decks were being auctioned off to raise money for the Venice Family Clinic, the largest free clinic in the country. But, these weren’t just any skateboard decks, these were works of art! They were transformed from decks to art by a large number of skateboarders, tattoo artists and other artists and they were really amazing. So, whether you have ever ridden a skateboard or not, you can appreciate the talent that these artists have. And, how cool that they got to do this to help raise money for an amazing organization.

I was reminded of an auction I went to many year ago to benefit an AIDS organization in NYC. But, instead of auctioning off decks they were auctioning off plates that had been painted by all different notable people. That night I bought one of my first pieces at a charity auction, a plate painted by Gayle King! And, I am proud to say that fifteen years later, her beautiful plate still hangs in my kitchen.

Back to today, over the course of the day, I got to help transform a vacant gallery space into a full-fledged art gallery. It was a great experience and something completely unique. I got to meet some great folks and from what I hear the auction was a big success. Very glad I had a hand in that and in making sure those in need can get the vital help they need.