As the founder of The Auntie Karen Foundation, I’ve spent over two decades using the power of the arts to educate, empower, and uplift our youth—especially in underserved and rural communities. This work is deeply personal to me. I created this foundation because I believe every child, no matter their background, deserves access to creative opportunities that spark confidence, curiosity, and purpose. Through our programs, we’ve helped thousands of young people discover their gifts and imagine a brighter future. Midlands Gives is more than a fundraising event—it’s a chance for our entire community to come together and invest in the next generation of artists, leaders, and dreamers. Your support ensures that we can continue to offer arts education and world-class experiences that would otherwise be out of reach for many children. When you give, you're not just donating—you’re helping a child realize they belong, that their voice matters, and that their dreams are possible.

The Auntie Karen Foundation is guided by its mission to create and implement a series of reproducible community outreach programs designed to empower, enlighten & educate through the arts. We have dedicated our focus on generating a positive impact on today's children - the voices of the future. There are six outreach programs that are strategically designed to support the growth and development of youth throughout South Carolina with the support of amazing business & community advocates.