Community Corner

Long Grove 8th-Grader Donates Artwork for a Good Cause

Woodlawn Middle School student and artist Mira Sethi recently donated an oil painting she created to be auctioned at the Lake County Haven Gala on May 12.

Thirteen-year-old Mira Sethi of Long Grove is using her volunteer efforts and artistic talents to improve the lives of others. 

The eighth-grader recently donated an oil painting she created to be auctioned at the 20th anniversary Havenly Night Gala benefit for Lake County Haven

The gala — held at Ravinia Green Country Club in Riverwoods — included cocktails and dinner, a program and a silent auction including Sethi’s painting, to raise funds for the nonprofit organization.

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"By the time Mira was leaving for the evening, there were no bids for her work and it looked as if it might not sell — but quite the contrary — bidders were just waiting until the end to get the bidding started," said Jenn Wales, events and volunteer coordinator at Lake County Haven.

"I was ecstatic to find out that my painting got auctioned..finally my journey that started the day I began coloring with crayons has reached its first milestone," Sethi said.

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Sethi also donated her time to help with the event to benefit Lake County Haven, whose mission is to provide shelter, housing and professional services for homeless people — most of whom are women and children.

“Not only did Mira give the gift of her beautiful oil painting, but she attended planning meetings and helped us with registration on the night of the gala,” said Wales.

"I feel that Lake County Haven can really provide a second chance to women and children in need. I have a strong desire to get even more involved with this organization," said Sethi.

Mira’s mother, who also volunteered at the event, said the idea to help people in need came from her daughter.

“I encourage Mira to do what she feels she should do — she came to me with the idea to give to Lake County Haven because she understands they do an excellent job of taking care of homeless people living in Lake County,” said Erica Sethi.

Many of the clients at Lake County Haven are victims of domestic violence, addicted to drugs or alcohol or are dealing with severe physical or mental health issues.

The organization has transitional shelter and housing programs that works to move clients from homelessness to ultimate independence.

Intensive Case Management services also are available.

"It is obvious to me that Mira comes from a family where they are teaching their children the gift of giving to others through their very own gifts — the world will be a more beautifully decorated place with Mira, her spirit and her art in it," Wales said.

"To be able to use my art to benefit others is a new and very rewarding feeling," Mira Sethi said. "I feel that if we all use our talents that God has given to benefit others, this could be a different world."

For more information or to get involved, visit the Lake County Haven website.


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