NEWTOWN, Conn. — Newtown High School senior Claire DiNoto, founder and president of the College Application Prep (NHS CAP) Club, is organizing a silent art auction fundraiser to support two $2,500 scholarships for students with significant out-of-school responsibilities.
The event, Canvas For A Cause, will take place on Sunday, May 17, from 3 to 5 p.m. at a historic barn located at 50 Main St. in Newtown. The fundraiser will feature original artwork from local and regional artists, with all proceeds benefiting NHS CAP’s scholarship program.
Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door, and include admission, hors d’oeuvres provided by Mexcla Restaurant, and light refreshments. Advance tickets are available at bit.ly/4mo0DCq.
DiNoto said the goal of the fundraiser is to expand access to scholarships for students whose contributions are often outside traditional academic and extracurricular categories.
“This year we’re hoping to award two $2,500 scholarships,” DiNoto said previously, noting the program specifically supports students who take on family or community responsibilities not typically reflected in GPA- or activity-based awards.
The NHS CAP Scholarship, established through the student-run club, evaluates applicants based on personal responsibility and initiative rather than academic metrics. Club members help review applications, while DiNoto does not participate in the selection process.
The fundraiser has drawn support from local arts organizations and community partners, including Society of Creative Arts of Newtown and Art & Frame, which have helped promote the event and connect organizers with participating artists.
The auction is expected to feature at least 25 works, with organizers aiming for a wide range of media, including painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media. Approximately 100 attendees are expected.
All funds raised will go directly toward the NHS CAP Scholarship program.
Additional event details are available via NHS CAP Club social media or by contacting Claire DiNoto at dinotoclaire16@gmail.com.
