Miami, FL – September 24, 2016 – In celebration of its 15th anniversary, Arts for Learning, a Miami-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing teaching and learning through the arts, hosted “The Chance to Create” gala. The evening of celebration was inspired by the historic Cafe Pompeii supper club nights at the Eden Roc Hotel, to help bring arts education and programs to children and youth across our community. More than 200 of Miami’s prominent art enthusiasts, artists, community and business leaders were in attendance to celebrate and support the organization. The night began with a cocktail reception where guests interacted with Arts for Learning interns. Later in the evening guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner along with a special performance by some of Miami’s brightest jazz stars including Grammy nominated percussionist Sammy Figueroa. Joining Figueroa on stage to play tribute to iconic jazz artists were vocalists Nicole Henry, Lenard Rutledge and Big Brooklyn Red. The celebration also provided the perfect moment to recognize and honor the local professional visual and performing artists who work with children and youth to make Arts for Learning’s programs possible. Arts for Learning is the largest organization in South Florida solely dedicated to connecting professional visual and performing artists to children and educators. Through its comprehensive programs, offered at nearly 50 schools, preschools and community settings, the organization has reached more than 120,000 students from infancy through high school. Arts for Learning utilizes visual and performing arts to improve children’s creativity, critical thinking, communications and ability to collaborate.

Nicole Henry

Sammy Figueroa

Big Brooklyn Red

Hugh & Carol Lumpkin

Sheila Womble, Chris & Cathy Harrison

Tina Brown, Cecilia Gutierrez, David Halpern, & Sheila Womble

Sheila Womble

Daniel Lewis

Lenard Rutledge

Michael Green

Sheila Womble & Betsy Caplan

N. Abraham Issa, Sheila Womble, & Betsy Caplan

Sheila Womble, Betsy Caplan, & N. Abraham Issa

Diane de Vries Ashley, Sammy Figueroa, & Sheila Womble

Sheila Womble & Diane de Vries Ashley

Fernanda Moreno Harcha & Clara Toro

Fernanda Paguaga & Grace Turiano

GALLERY SLIDER