The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center aims to raise $25,000 at its annual Fall Reception and Art Auction on Saturday, Oct. 17, celebrating a decade of its Center Arts Gallery.

The event, themed "The Art of Belonging," will take place at the center's home at 1827 Wiltberger St. NW in Shaw. Artists will create work live on site throughout the evening, and local LGBTQ+ artists have donated pieces for an online benefit auction.

Executive Director Kimberley Bush said she envisioned the gallery 10 years ago as a dedicated space for local LGBTQ+ artists. She described the milestone in an Oct. 8 op-ed in the Washington Blade.

"Ten years ago, I had a vision: to create a dedicated space within The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center for local LGBTQ+ artists to share their creativity in a community space conceived specifically for them," Bush wrote. "That vision became the Center Arts Gallery."

Several of the gallery's original artists are donating work for the auction, Bush wrote.

Proceeds fund the center's direct services, including a free food pantry, behavioral health counseling, trauma-informed case management, HIV/STI testing and hygiene services such as showers, laundry and a clothing boutique. The center also provides harm reduction supplies, a cyber lounge and wellness programs.

Award-winning spoken word artist, poet and educator Charity Blackwell will host the evening. Jazz combo 2nd Independence, from the DC Different Drummers, will perform. Shaw Tavern is providing hors d'oeuvres, and celebrity chef Patrick Vanas is handling desserts. ASL interpretation will be available during the program.

General admission is free but was listed at capacity as of Oct. 8. Custom signature cocktails, wine and beer will be available for purchase. A $75 VIP ticket includes early entry at 6 p.m., complimentary Champagne from 6 to 7 p.m., early auction access, a swag bag, a chance to meet participating artists and an open beer and wine bar for the evening. Residents can check availability at thedccenter.org.

What's ahead in D.C. community events:

  • Saturday, Oct. 17: Fall Reception and Art Auction, 1827 Wiltberger St. NW. VIP entry at 6 p.m. Details at thedccenter.org.
  • Nov. 7: Adams Morgan PorchFest with artisan market.