The Western New York community is invited to an unforgettable night of art, fashion, live performances and philanthropy, as International Child Advancement (ICA) proudly presents its second annual Hope on the Horizon Art Gala. The Gala, which is being held to support orphans, refugees and other underserved children in Buffalo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), will be held at Italian Prime at Salvatore’s (formerly known as Salvatore’s Italian Gardens) on Saturday, September 14, starting at 5:30 p.m.

“The Hope on the Horizon Art Gala is more than just an evening of entertainment,” says ICA Founder & Executive Director Evelyn Kessler, whose family is originally from the DRC. “It’s a powerful statement of solidarity, hope and a call to action.”

A nonprofit organization founded in 2016, ICA is committed to empowering underprivileged children to become self-sufficient through education, vocational training and mentoring. It works to equip these students with educational sponsorship, vocational training, housing, scholarships, school supplies and financial education, ensuring they have the tools necessary to succeed in school and life.

Through its Hope on the Horizon Art Gala, ICA aims to raise over $30,000 to support essential programs for underserved youth, including tuition and after-school program expenses, vocational training, financial and career development workshops, scholarships and more.

An event that promises to inspire and delight, the Hope on the Horizon Art Gala will be hosted by international model Grace Modi and will feature the following proceedings:

·       Live Art by Princessa Figueroa-Williams, artist and owner of Princessa’s Studio & Art Gallery

·       A Student Showcase of artwork from student artists from Buffalo, NY, and the DRC

·       A Fashion Show featuring collections from local designers and boutiques, including Sasmita Batik Indonesia and Nectarine Dreams

·       Cultural Performances by Vibrant Strings, Amor & Heritage Dance and Indonesian dance group Sekar Melati Dancer Nusantara Arts

·       An Awards Ceremony recognizing Western New York community leaders who are making a difference in the lives of underserved youth in Buffalo and the DRC

·       A Silent Auction, fine dining, dancing and music by DJ LydVicious

"Our mission to ‘empower, educate and elevate’ underserved children can only reach its full potential with the support of our community,” says Kessler. “This Gala is a celebration of art and culture, but more importantly, it is an opportunity to turn dreams into reality for children in need.”

Individual, pair bundles and group tickets are available, in addition to various levels of sponsorship packages. Interested community members or organizations may view sponsorship opportunities and purchase tickets online.