Hearts for Rwanda Fundraiser Celebrates Valentine's Day

This Valentine’s Day, residents have a chance to send a little love that can make a big difference halfway across the world through the Hearts for Rwanda art show and exhibit.

Hosted and created by in , the show has an opening celebration from 7 to 9 p.m. this Saturday night, featuring pieces of art created by children who live in the Urukundo Village of Rwanda, along with Spiritworks owner, Patricia Brown.

“I dreamed of beginning a fundraising event that could be done anywhere by children anywhere in the United States or the world for the children in Rwanda,” Brown said. “I am hoping this is the beginning of something that could grow.”

Brown’s mother, . In the United States, people can donate to her efforts through Hope Made Real.

Hearts for Rwanda is perfect for the season because it’s all about one thing—love.

“Valentine’s Day is more than just saying to someone, ‘I love you,’ it’s an expression of love,” Brown said. “It expresses that you love them in a deeper way—love isn’t something you keep in your heart—your deeds show your love.”

Twins recently tested for AIDS created one piece. One twin was diagnosed while the other was not. Mary Jean Stabile of Forest Hills also has art on display. Each work of art has a suggested donation of $20 a piece for purchase, while all funds go directly to help the children at the Urukundo Home for Children in Rwanda through Hope Made Real. During the opening Saturday, wine and a few appetizers will be served as well.

“I sent over plain canvas pieces and they drew and colored,” Brown said of the children. “They sent it back to me, and I enhanced the color in some places, and then put it on simple wood.”

The pieces all are mounted and sealed so they can be placed anywhere in the home. Many of them are mixed media, featuring different fabrics, earrings, metal pieces and more.

“People can give them to a loved one and then donate it in that person’s name,” Brown said. “They can say, ‘Not only is this a gift for you, it’s a gift for the child as well.’”

In addition to the works of art, each piece is personalized with a photo of the child underneath it, along with some of their hobbies, dreams and goals.  One child wants to attend Penn State University, while another dreams of becoming a veterinarian.

Hearts, Rwandan flags, African themes and more are featured in the art.
Outside donations are welcome for the Hearts for Rwanda event as well for those who are not able to get a piece of art. Just a few more are available.

“This reminds me and reminds them that we are all one, which is what this studio is about,” Brown said. “I am looking forward to people coming together and enjoying giving to a good cause.”

The event is open to the public and also will feature a video of the children. For more information, call 412-475-YOGA.

For more information about Mama Arlene and the children of Urukundo Village, or to make a donation, visit http://hopemadereal.org/.