Emcee Mary Baer speaking to the crowd of more than 300 guests | Photo by Zstopstudios
Building on over two decades of success, CAP held its 21st annual Spring for the Arts on Friday, April 17, 2026 at Epping Forest Yacht & Country Club, raising $764,408 in support of CAP’s REIMAGINE Campaign.
“This community showed up once again to champion children, arts education and our REIMAGINE campaign,” said Rev. Kimberly L. Hyatt, CAP President & CEO. “This tremendous support equips us to continue helping children discover their voices and their potential, which ultimately makes the First Coast a better place for everyone.”
Sparking Change in Students’ Lives
CAP President & CEO Rev. Kimberly L. Hyatt with student speaker Henry and his family | Photo by Zstopstudios
Former WJXT anchor Mary Baer emceed the event. Marty Fiorentino of The Florida Group led the live auction and encouraged attendees to donate more than $165,000 through the Ignite A Dream paddle raise.
Speakers included Honorary Event Chairs Frances and Anthony Jabbour, as well as Henry, a fifth grade CAP student at Highlands Elementary School.
“At CAP, we learn more than how to sing, act or paint. We learn how to listen, how to understand others, and how to have the courage to do what is right—even when it’s hard,” Henry said. “One day, I could be an animator, a voice–over character or a lawyer. I don’t know. What I do know is that I will take the lessons I’ve learned in the arts and use them to help make the world a better place.”
Honoring Dedicated Supporters
Hyatt (right) with Kristine Cherek and Kirk Larsen, the 2026 Guardians of the Arts | Photo by Zstopstudios
Kristine Cherek and Kirk Larsen were celebrated as the 2026 Guardians of the Arts for their contributions to advancing and safeguarding the arts along the First Coast. Cherek served on CAP’s board of directors from 2017–2024, leading the way as its chair during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020–2023. She and Kirk also served as event chairs for Spring for the Arts in 2023.
Cherek and Larsen were presented with a sculptural shield created for the occasion by Jenny K. Hager, Professor of Sculpture at the University of North Florida. Hager, known for her work in steel, cast iron and found objects, infused the piece with reflection on the power of unexpected connections.
The 21st Annual Spring for the Arts would not have been possible without the generous support of Event Chairs Marisa and Frank Martire, the many sponsors who made the event possible, the Delores Barr Weaver Forever Event Fund and numerous board members and volunteers for helping execute another successful event.
Millions Raised for Arts Education
Since its inception, Spring for the Arts has generated more than $10 million for arts education in Northeast Florida. The fundraiser also celebrates community engagement in support of funding arts education initiatives throughout the region.
CAP’s REIMAGINE Campaign aims to raise $26 million by summer 2026 to expand its fellowship teaching model and Emerging Artist Programs. To learn more and contribute, visit capkids.org/reimagine.
The 22nd annual Spring for the Arts will be held in 2027.
See photos of the event on CAP’s Flickr page.
