The Haddonfield Educational Trust, Inc. is a non-profit foundation dedicated to enhancing educational excellence of the Haddonfield Public Schools. The trust accomplishes this by supporting educational initiatives through supplemental fundraising by working with individuals, community groups and corporations.
This year, the HET is working with the Markeim Arts Center to host an artist exhibition called Homegrown that features local artists. In Homegrown, artists will offer an array of pieces for sale at the reception. Artists are donating 50 percent of the proceeds to support Teacher Innovation Grants for teachers within the school district through the HET.
“This year, money is going toward teacher grants. If a teacher comes up with an idea that isn’t within the set budget, they can apply for a grant with us. It’s an innovative use of funds and great for students who will benefit from that,” Maria De Simone, Homegrown event co-chair, said.
The Homegrown exhibit will be held at the Markeim Arts Center from Sept. 29 through Oct. 8, with a cocktail party on Friday, Oct. 2 from 6 to 10 p.m.
This is the first year the HET will be having this art exhibit. In the past, the HET would have an event called Night of 1,000 Dinners as its fundraiser. This time, it wanted to do something different, and when one of the department chairs suggested an art exhibition, it seemed like a good fit.
“We have never done this before. We’ll see how it goes. If it is successful, we might do it again, and if not we’ll think of something else,” De Simone said. “We do try to support our town, and Markeim, in whatever ways we can. When we decided on this exhibition, we didn’t think of anything else but Markeim. They are nice folks and it’s a perfect size for the exhibit.”
Those who come to the reception will have the opportunity to check out the art pieces and buy them. The art pieces include canvases, sculptures, furniture, jewelry and more. The prices range from $25 to $1,200.
The cocktail party will include a fun-filled evening with finger foods, desserts, wine and beer. There is no cost to attend the event.
All the artists have some connection to Haddonfield.
Artists are donating 50 percent of the proceeds to the HET. Credit cards, cash and checks will be accepted onsite for the sale on Oct. 2. And, according to De Simone, pieces can be taken home that night.
The exhibit and sale of artwork is a large part of the revenue stream to fund teacher grants for the Haddonfield school district.
“Come out for the free food and wine, but also come out to view the art and support the HET for the kids,” De Simone said.
For more information about the Homegrown Show or HET, email homegrown08033@gmail.com or visit www.haddonfieldeducationaltrust.org.
