GTMA Graphic Designer Donates Painting to Charity, Funding One Year of Education for Two Children
With service built into the fabric of our company culture, it is with great pleasure to learn of the impact our own employees are making when they live and breathe our core values. When New Hope Children, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing impoverished youth from the streets and landfills of Kenya, hosted a recent fundraiser event, GTMA graphic designer Pete Kasprzak donated original artwork that auctioned off for $1,000 to fund a year of education for not one, but two children.
GTMA’s involvement with New Hope Children inspired Kasprzak (or “Kaspr,” as he’s known around the office) to donate a custom painting in support of the cause.
“I’ve donated my art to quite a few charities,” says Pete. “Whenever Rachael came by the office, I’d always offer to donate a painting for any upcoming fundraisers she had planned.”
Rachael (RJ) Swanson, Founder of New Hope Children, took Kaspr up on his offer. The result was a new piece titled “Pico Sunset Aerial” which Pete had crafted specifically for a live auction the nonprofit hosted back in October. The mixed media oil painting was made using acrylic and gesso and depicts a beautiful Los Angeles sunset shot from high above the cusp of Hollywood and Santa Monica.
“I’m overwhelmed,” said Pete upon learning of the good his painting will help do. The $1,000 his painting sold for will cover a year’s worth of schooling for two children living in Kenya. The couple that bought it were very excited to win the painting and support New Hope Children at the same time.
“Next time, I’ll do a bigger one,” laughed Pete. “Maybe we can raise even more money to serve many more children!”
Pete takes a humble, blue-collar approach to his work. He feels blessed to be part of a company committed to being of service to others and to be “living the dream” here in Los Angeles. The feeling is mutual.
“Pete’s willingness to use his God-given gifts to give back to our kids is a testimony to just how awesome he is as a person. I’m so thankful he’s on our team!” said CEO Joshua Swanson, who also happens to be a member of the advisory board for the nonprofit.
GTMA is a frequent partner of New Hope Children to help give street kids in Kenya an education, counseling, food, shelter, and medical needs. You can follow New Hope Children on Facebook to learn more about the services they provide in pursuit of their mission to restore children’s lives, while assisting them in becoming healthy, productive, contributing members of their society. In honor of #GivingTuesday on November 28, 2017, we hope you consider launching a fundraiser along with us to raise funds for those amazing kids.