Delta Theta Tau, a philanthropic sorority, recently hosted its second annual Art in the Park event at Muscatatuck Park. The event allows children of any age, accompanied by an adult, to choose one of two paintings to replicate, or they can do a freestyle painting.
The adult has the option to either help their child with the art piece, or work on a canvas of their own. Participants must register ahead of time and pay $20 for the first canvas, and $15 if they would like another.
It was obvious to everyone in attendance that, despite the dreary weather, the kids were having a wonderful time working with the brightly colored paint and subject matter. Not only did they have smiles on their faces but there was an aura of joy throughout the busy shelter house.
Sorority member Debby Jackson said the reason for hosting the event is to help provide funds for scholarships, buy Christmas gifts during the holiday season, sponsor movie showings at the local Park Theatre Civic Centre and support Girls State, which sends girls in their junior year of high school to a leadership conference.
Some sorority members said the event is a good way for parents to spend quality time with their children while practicing an enjoyable activity that the kids may not necessarily do on a regular basis.
“We give the money back to our community, and art builds community, too, so it’s a win-win for everyone,” said sorority member Charlinda Evans.
High school members of the National Art Honor Society also benefit from Art in the Park because it’s an opportunity to donate their time to the community and earn a portion of the community service hours that they must perform each semester. They, along with the participating members of Delta Theta Tau, supervise the event and give advice and tips to the children.
Art in the Park benefits the community and gives kids and parents alike a sense of accomplishment and joy toward their finished art work. When the event comes along again next year, I highly recommend giving it a try.
