When we at Gaia made the big decision to establish an art auction as a new installment for our annual Earth Month fundraising, we knew we couldn't achieve our goals without the support of the community.

Art for the Earth's inspiration grew out of a desire to preserve and raise awareness about our local environment and culture. Regional art and the beauty of the Flint Hills often are forgotten, and Art for the Earth was a chance to bring them back into focus.

We never dreamed of the overwhelming and positive response from Manhattan and regional community members. Contributions ranging from art, time, money, knowledge, food, press, etc. helped us prepare for the event, and the art was on display at Radina's for the public to enjoy.

On April 19th, we gathered a the Wareham Opera House for a celebration of art and nature. Local artists provided a variety of pieces, everything from paintings and photographs to jewelry and sculpture.

At the bidding's close and after expenses, over $12,000 was raised to benefit the Friends of the Flint Hills Discovery Center. The Discovery Center will be a focal point of Manhattan's South End Downtown Redevelopment Area. The 35,000 square feet, $22.9 million Center will inspire people to celebrate, explore, and care for the Flint Hills. The core exhibitions will focus on the geological, ecological, and ethnological history of the people and land of the Flint Hills. The Center is currently in the design phase, and construction is expected to begin in Summer 2010. More information will be coming soon about how you can get involved by joining the Friends of the Discovery Center.

Our thanks goes out to everyone in the community who helped to make Art for the Earth a success. In collaboration with so many individuals, we established an annual event that is truly created by, and supportive of our local community. We look forward to the second installment next year!