Southwest Washington Center for the Arts proudly presents Uplift!, using art to serve children in need in Clark County

Paul Valencia 
ClarkCountyToday.com

Not so long ago, in a Wal-Mart parking lot not so far, far away, Darth Vader led a group of children into the store to go on a shopping spree.

Those children had quite a day Tuesday in Vancouver.

It was more than a chance to meet a cinematic villain, and it was more than just a chance to grab some needed clothing and some fun toys.

The children also returned to a cordoned-off section of the parking lot to experience the arts, get a lesson in food preparation, and partake in some flavored ice.

“This event is all about bringing the arts to children who might not otherwise have that exposure,” said Kim Eisenhower, the creative director for the Southwest Washington Center for the Arts. 

It was the Center for the Arts that organized this community project called “Uplift!” 

“For us, it’s about collaborating with change-makers in the community and using the arts to create good,” Eisenhower said. “We create events that have purpose. The arts are a big part of that.”

Dozens of children from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington and Friends of the Children received vouchers for $125 to purchase clothes, upcoming school supplies, and more at the Walmart just off of Mill Plain Blvd., near I-205.

The children also were given art supplies from Artstra’s Creative Relief Clark County. That was after they were all asked to help on a group art project, a painting with original work from dozens.

There was an instrument “petting zoo” presented by Beacock Music. Children could come try out drums, bongos, a ukulele and more.

The Clark County Food Bank gave a healthy snack demonstration and provided children with backpacks of food to take home with them.

And PAL of Southwest Washington was there to serve as shopper buddies along with other community volunteers. 

“We want to be able to provide an experience for them,” said Russ Lengyel, the store manager, standing just outside three checkstands that were reserved only for young superheroes. 

He added that many community projects were put on pause during the pandemic. He is thrilled that Walmart, and others, are back into full swing.

“We want to be part of the community. We want to give back,” Lengyel said. “That’s really the key.”

“It’s pretty cool to see the kids out here … just being kids,” said Francisco Bueno, the executive director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington.

“It’s important for us to be part of the community and be part of wonderful events such as this,” added Michele Dwiggins, a manager at Beacock Music.

Shopping sprees, such as Shop with a Cop, are traditionally done during the holidays. Eisenhower noted that children facing circumstantial hardship tend to suffer during the summer months, as well. For those who depend on school breakfast and lunch programs, for example, summer vacation can bring concerns about their next meal. 

For other children, summer can bring boredom, inactivity, and isolation. 

The Center for the Arts worked with the Boys and Girls Clubs and Friends of the Children to identify families with children 8 to 12 years old who would benefit from this event.

“The generosity in our community never fails to amaze me,” Eisenhower said. “This incredible partnership between Clark County’s powerhouse nonprofits, businesses, and individuals means children can shop for themselves while taking time out to simply be a kid.”