The Art of Giving - a silent art auction to benefit Caracole - took place on October 1, 2004 at the Aronoff Gallery in downtown Cincinnati. It was the result of the vision, work, and organizational skills of George Crawford and Jerry Schmidt, owners of Metronation, a unique retail store located at 824 Elm Street downtown.

Leslie Aronoff and Condy Beavers generously provided the location for the evening, the beautiful Aronoff Gallery. Jeff Thomas Catering provided delicious hors d’ oeuvres (including a mashed potato bar–a big hit!) and wine for all who attended. Michael Sweeney from The Sweeney Team of Comey & Shepard Realtors was one of the benefit sponsors.

Works donated by local artists were auctioned throughout the evening. The featured art covered diverse mediums including clay, acrylics, photography, stained glass, and textiles. Artists who donated work included Janet Berg, Robert Hamm, Barry Ross and Sally Sutton.

“Every single person and business I asked to be involved with this benefit said yes when I told them it was for Caracole. I have never seen so much positive community support for an organization before,” said Mr. Crawford. He also mentioned that a number of artists have asked to be involved in the next Art of Giving - so we are looking very forward to another Art of Giving in 2005.

Caracole is grateful to all of the people - organizers, sponsors, artists, attendees, and volunteers - who helped to make this event such a success.