A Night of Creativity, Community, and Impact
The Gulf Coast Partnership is thrilled to announce Art Under the Stars, our first annual art auction fundraising event to benefit the Stars Academy Scholarship Fund. This unforgettable evening of art, community, and inspiration will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM (with exclusive VIP early access from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM) at The Event Center at Holy Trinity.
Why Stars Academy?
Art Under the Stars supports Stars Academy, a community-driven childcare center born in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. When so many families in Charlotte County lost access to early learning opportunities, the Gulf Coast Partnership—together with the American Red Cross and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County—launched Stars Academy to ensure children ages 6 weeks to 5 years could continue receiving safe, high-quality early education. Today, Stars Academy stands as a vibrant, nurturing place where children learn, grow, and thrive, and where families know they are supported.
Every dollar raised at Art Under the Stars will directly fuel the Stars Academy Scholarship Fund, ensuring that families in need can access affordable, life-changing early learning for their children.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to be part of this exciting event:
- 🎟️ Attend the Event: Tickets are on sale now—reserve your seat for a dazzling evening of art, entertainment, and purpose.
- 💫 Become a Sponsor: Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering your business meaningful visibility while supporting local children and families.
- 🎨 Showcase Your Talent: We are currently seeking artists to participate in the auction and share their creativity with the community.
- 🤝 Join the Planning Committee: Help us shape this landmark event by lending your skills and passion.
- 🙌 Volunteer: From setup to guest hospitality, volunteers will play a vital role in bringing the event to life.
A Night to Remember
Guests will enjoy an inspiring art auction featuring local and regional talent, engaging experiences, and the opportunity to directly invest in the future of Charlotte County’s children. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a business leader, or a community member with a heart for giving back, Art Under the Stars promises to be an evening you won’t want to miss.
✨ Together, we can light the way for the next generation—one brushstroke, one partnership, and one child at a time.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, artist participation details, or to sign up as a volunteer, please visit www.stars-academy.org or www.gulfcoastpartnership.org OR contact Kelly Hunter, Director of Development & Marketing at 941-626-0220 x 4 or by email at kelly.hunter@gulfcoastpartnership.org.