Photo by RISE contributing artist Che Kothari.

The people behind Sketch believe that creating art is a curious, yet effective, way to address homelessness and poverty, and I'd have to agree. While art isn't the only way to help street youth, it does help in addressing concerns of acceptance, community building, and productive expression.

The objective of Sketch is simple: "to create opportunities for street involved and homeless people ages 15-29, to engage in the arts in a cross-discipline studio environment or in the community." While there are many ways to help or get involved with Sketch, one immediate way to support the project is by attending RISE, a fundraising art and music event aimed to raise ten thousand dollars for Sketch, taking place at the Burroughes Gallery this Thursday.

As part of their fundraising efforts, the organizers of RISE have received donations from some of the most respected artists in North America — including some of my favorites: HXFOUR, Che Kothari, Luna Simic, Elicser, Talia Shipman, and Parishil Studio — which will be auctioned off on opening night with all proceeds going to Sketch.

Music for the night will be provided by Toronto DJs Dopey and Serious and by special guest DJ Platurn from Oakland. Admission to the opening night party is free, but donations will be accepted for Sketch at the door.

RISE goes down at the Burroughes Gallery on Thursday, December 13 and the party and silent auction kicks off at 7pm. More information about all the artists contributing to the project can be found at the RISE webpage or on Facebook.

For those of you that can't make it to RISE but still want to learn more about Sketch, you can get more information on how to donate and volunteer on their website.