Channel your inner artist and WEAR ART!

Wear art refers to wearable items or accessories that are designed with an artistic, expressive, or creative focus, often blurring the line between fashion and fine art. Wear art can encompass clothing, jewelry, shoes, or other accessories, transforming everyday items into forms of personal artistic expression.  

Be sure to keep an eye on our socials where we will be posting some inspiration from our staff!

Emcee

Shannon Wolf

(she/her)

With over 25 years of experience in the radio industry, Shannon Wolf is currently the morning show host and producer for 89.3 The Raven. Born and raised in Edmonton, she’s had the privilege of working in both Alberta and Ontario, connecting with audiences through the airwaves. Outside of broadcasting, Shannon is a devoted family person, enjoying life with her husband, daughter, and their eclectic pets—two cats, a dog, and a tortoise. She has a passion for pop culture, particularly The Real Housewives series, Halloween at Disneyland, and wrestling, which keeps her life entertaining both on and off the mic.

Guest Artist

Kelsey Nowaczynski Baker

(she/her)

Kelsey Nowaczynski Baker is an artist based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Born in Trail, BC, Canada, she earned her BEd, majoring in Art from the University of Alberta and works full time as a teacher. She is largely self-trained and after a skills and development grant from the Edmonton Arts Council began working with immersive art and extended plain compositions. As a painter and assemblage artist, her work is driven by a sense of awe and wonder, evoking memories and emotions through her use of vibrant colors and expressive techniques. Baker’s pieces are whimsical and immersive, inviting the viewer to step into a world of resiliency through experiential art. She constantly pushes boundaries and embraces the experimental nature of her craft, resulting in an ever-evolving body of work that sparks curiosity and invites contemplation. Through her art, Baker seeks to create a multifaceted experience, engaging the senses and inspiring a deeper connection to the world around us. 

Experience Kelsy’s immersive shadow box installation that explores themes of trauma, healing, and resiliency. Using LED lighting to bring her pieces to life, Kelsey creates captivating works that honor the strength and resilience of women. Her art serves as a powerful conversation starter, inviting guests to reflect on healing through art, advocacy and the transformative power of creativity.

Survivors Panel

Rachel Rogers

Rachel had a long career with Edmonton Public Schools as a teacher, school counsellor and school psychologist, retiring in 2020. Currently, she is the President of the ADHD Association of Greater Edmonton which she founded in 2009. After leaving a dysfunctional marriage that ended in harrowing physical and emotional abuse, she has now established herself as the CEO of her rich, new life. Rachel loves spending time with her two precious grandchildren, playing Pickleball, singing in a choir, reading and travelling.

Lynne Rosychuk

Lynne established the Jessica Martel Memorial Foundation in 2012 after the tragic death of her daughter, Jessica. In May of 2020, with the help of her communities, Lynne realized her dream of opening a safe haven for families fleeing gender-based violence in memory of her daughter, called Jessie’s House. In June of 2024, they opened the doors to Eileen’s Place, which has 3x3 bedroom suites for second stage housing. Lynne is also involved in advocacy and raising awareness about the devastating affects domestic violence has on our society. 

Karen Gosbee

Karen is a leading advocate for mental health, addiction, and domestic violence awareness, shaped by personal experiences and the loss of her husband, George Gosbee to suicide in 2017. Determined to create change, she shares her story to inspire others and address gaps in support systems. Karen co-chaired Calgary’s Community Action on Mental Health and Addiction, serves on Alberta’s Mental Health and Addictions Advisory Council, and is a member of the Global Leadership Exchange. She is founder and CEO of Under3, a progressive app for securely documenting abuse. Author of the bestseller, A Perfect Nightmare, Karen is dedicated to advancing resources and fostering hope for individuals and families in need.  

Candice Ryan

Candice, an Edmonton-based country artist, sings with a depth and authenticity that only comes from lived experience. As a multi-award winning, multi-genre performer and radio personality, Candice is more than an entertainer – she’s a storyteller. A survivor of domestic violence, she’s writing new music and a memoir that reveals the complexities of leaving an abusive marriage while living in the spotlight. Her heartfelt performances and inspiring journey are resonating with fans everywhere, making her a rising star whose voice deserves to be heard. Candice will also be performing as a musical guest at the gala! 

Art Gallery of Alberta

Gifts of Hope will take place in the spectacular Atrium and Main Hall of the awe-inspiring Art Gallery of Alberta.

Become a Sponsor!

Sponsorship is critical to the success of our Gifts of Hope Gala! There are many options for supporting our Gala, including donations of items for our raffle, auctions and swag bags. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email chantal.cooknell@acws.ca 

More Information on Sponsorship Opportunities

Biggest Thanks To Our Sponsors