Local Artist Donates Work to All Star Children’s Foundation

(Sarasota, FL) “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think and loved more than you know.” This beloved quote from A.A. Milne is captured on a trio of canvases gracing the walls of the waiting area in All Star Children’s Foundation’s Children’s Center.  

The Sarasota-based artist who donated the work is Meg Krakowiak. She met All Star founder Graci McGillicuddy over a year ago and was immediately captivated by her vision and mission for All Star Children’s Foundation. Krakowiak decided on the spot to make it her personal charity. 

“Graci’s passion for kids comes from her heart. Every square inch of the campus contributes to their well-being, from the careful design of the homes to the vegetable garden and more,” she says. “All Star’s model lifts them up—and it truly makes a difference.”

According to Krakowiak, the quote she celebrates in her triptych is all about self-worth. “Every child has incredible value,” she says. “This quote speaks a truth over every child, whether they believe it now or not. I think Milne’s words offer a beautiful affirmation of their true potential.”

Krakowiak also generously donated her painting, “Heart of Sailing,” to All Star. In addition, she has volunteered to care for the children of All Star campus’ foster parents. 

 “Meg’s art inspires feelings of hope and healing for all who see it,” says McGillicuddy. “We are so grateful to be the recipients of Meg’s beautiful, heartfelt and inspirational artwork.”

Krakowiak exhibits her work at the Meg Krakowiak Gallery & Studio, 60 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota; www.megkrakowiakstudios.com.  

All Star has completed its “Campus of Hope and Healing,” which includes the All Star Children’s Center, where trauma-focused clinical services are offered. The campus also features six foster family homes that provide children, ages 0-18, with a nurturing, family-style home environment and comprehensive, trauma-sensitive treatment. Siblings are kept together, and parents and caregivers are offered a range of services. All Star also serves children in the region’s child welfare system and their families on an outpatient basis. 

According to McGillicuddy, All Star has implemented a trauma-informed program that delivers the latest evidence-based protocols and treatments for foster children and their biological families. Partnering with leaders across the child welfare system, the non-profit organization has tapped best-in-class partners to assist in their mission.