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As Michelle Bearman-Wolnek, Executive Director of Heart Gallery of Alabama, prepares for her next exhibit in Talladega, she meticulously arranges each installation.  No, she is not displaying Monets, Fredas or other expensive art.  She is crafting an exhibit on which a monetary value cannot be placed.  She is selecting pieces for Heart Gallery Alabama’s monthly exhibit of children in Alabama’s foster care system.  She is attempting to match children with forever families.  For some children, this could be the last opportunity to be adopted.

Michelle's goal is to display thirty photographs.  Each child or sibling group’s photograph is matted and framed.  A brief description of their history, hobbies and desires is laminated and displayed next to their portrait.  Through the exhibit, children are introduced to potential adoptive parents support is built for Heart Gallery Alabama’s efforts.

This exhibit is only one way in which Heart Gallery Alabama promotes adoption.  They also work with photographers and media specialists to produce multi-media presentations for children who are seeking to be adopted.  Michelle reminds me of the mother-manager of a child star working with a talent agency.  She knows the details of each child.  She wants to make sure that the best of each of them is portrayed.  The children have a portfolio of portraits, a web profile, and many of them have videos.  All of their information is available to the public on the HGA website.  Thanks to professional photographers who donate their time, there are photo albums and hard copies of profiles available at participating organizations in the parts of the state where each child lives.

So how is the organization funded? 

There are the traditional donations and grants, but they also sponsor an artsy, fun event called Fotos, Frames & Fun, a family friendly party and silent auction held on February 11, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. at Ted’s Garage.  This is the second year Heart Gallery is hosting this event, where attendees can expect to enjoy an evening of great food, fun, and music.   Some of the unique items to be auctioned include frames that are painted and donated by local artists.  These frames enclose mats that are signed by Alabama celebrities such as Nick Saban or the UAB basketball coaches.  Other auction items include a diamond and gold pendent, a unique handbag, a doll,  and wedding and golf packages. 

Below you can view a gallery of some of the children eligible for adoption through Heart Gallery's program.   If you are interested in Heart Gallery's upcoming fundraiser, visit the Fotos, Frames & Fun registration page or call 205-445-1293.

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