Fundraising and Community Art Initiative

Mural for Leise-Bowen-Johnson VFW Post 3551 Brush, Colorado

South-facing external wall

Introduction

Combining community art with fundraising, this plan aims to both beautify the VFW post and raise needed funds while creating lasting community engagement through multiple events.

Capstone Project:
Mural for the South Wall (external) of VFW Post 3551

Art Contest Details

• Theme: “Honoring Our Veterans”
• Categories:
  • Adult (18 and up) – individual or group
  • Youth (13-17) – individual or group
  • Kids (12 and under) – individual or group
• Entries Accepted: April and May 2025
• No Entry Fee
• Cash Prize Pool at least $500

Contest Administration

• Entries must be received on, or before, 5 pm local time on Saturday, May 31st, 2025
• Artists / Entrants give all rights to their artwork to VFW Post 3551
• A judging panel will choose their winners and make recommendations to VFW Post 3551 for final certification

Supporting Fundraising Events

Events will be added. Please keep an eye on our Events page.

Art Preview Gala and Veterans Art Show

• Display contest submissions
• Display, sell, and auction artwork from local veterans and allow sales of artworks
• Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks provided
• Silent auction, and possibly live auction, of donated artworks
• Raffle, or auction, for signed, framed copy of winning submission
• VIP Sponsor tickets with special recognition
• Live music from local performers

Ice Cream Socials

• Ice Cream!!
• Feature art contest display
• Live painting demonstrations
• Children’s art station

Business/Personal Sponsorship Levels

Benefits for Sponsorships are updated frequently. Please check back.

• Platinum ($1,000): Featured on mural plaque (and all lower level benefits)
• Gold ($500): Recognition at all events (and all lower level benefits)
• Silver ($250): Listed in programs (and all lower level benefits)
• Bronze ($100): Social media recognition

Timeline

• March and April
  • Sponsorship Drive and Spread the Word
  • Entries Accepted
• June
  • Judging / Winner Selection
• July
  • Gala Event
  • Art Show
• August and September
  • Mural Preparation and Painting
• September and October
  • Completion and Dedication Ceremony