YouCaring, an online fundraising platform, announced on Tuesday that it is adding a new dimension to the arts with the recent launch of its Compassion in Action Gallery, a showcase of inspiration that aims to instill in visitors an appreciation for the powerful impact creativity and kindness can have when combined.
As part of YouCaring’s overarching mission to Unleash Compassion (#UnleashCompassion), the unique gallery mixes the arts with crowdfunding to raise awareness and rally support for important humanitarian causes.
Drawing on the creative spirit of the San Francisco building where YouCaring is located, 49 Geary St., a longtime hub of prominent art galleries, the Compassion in Action Gallery hosts rotating exhibits in mediums such as painting, photography, literature and music. Each event, most taking place during the building’s popular First Thursday Gallery Openings, is held with an online YouCaring fundraiser for a humanitarian cause that the artist is passionate about. In lieu of a gallery commission, a portion of all proceeds is donated to the fundraiser. Most exhibits run through the month.
Lori Tenny, editorial director of YouCaring and curator of the Compassion in Action Gallery, stated:
“Whether it’s a nonprofit bringing its mission to life through art or art giving a unique voice to a personal or charitable cause, we provide an intimate venue that uses creativity to ultimately help others overcome hardship,” said . “We believe people can do extraordinary things when they combine their passion with compassion and translate their good intentions into kind actions.”
Recent & Upcoming Events/Exhibits
- Eat Art: A Visual and Edible Adventure for Good (October) — photos by Madrid-based photographer Cristina Calvo paired with gourmet small plates by celebrated chefs. Fundraiser: Lava Mae of San Francisco, providing mobile showers for the homeless.
- Lost Childhoods (September) — portraits of former foster youth by San Francisco-based photographer Ray Bussolari. Fundraiser: Foster Youth Museum of Oakland, Calif.
- Sunsets Instead of Bombs (July) — paintings by San Francisco-based artist Sofia Carmi, who lived in Jerusalem during shelling. Fundraiser: Acupuncturists Without Borders.
- Neurosis Gastronómica (Nov.1-30, opening reception: Thursday, Nov. 5, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) — culinary-themed photos by Madrid-based photographer Cristina Calvo. Fundraiser: Lava Mae of San Francisco.