SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Emily’s Hope held its largest Art Show and Auction to date on Sat, Jan. 24. The event showcased 114 works from 69 artists and drew a crowd of 400 attendees.
“I was overwhelmed by the turnout and support for our mission to stop stigma and save lives,” said Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope.
The evening was about more than art, food, and music. It also served as an opportunity to educate attendees on the opioid epidemic and substance use disorder. Guests received naloxone kits, a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
“We’re thrilled to share the mission of Emily’s Hope and the work we’re doing,” Kennecke said. “The support from artists, partners, and the community is helping us make a real difference in ending this epidemic.”
Since its founding in 2019, Emily’s Hope has grown into a multifaceted organization. It offers a K-12 substance use prevention curriculum, a podcast to raise awareness, scholarships for addiction treatment, and more.
During the show, a family who benefited from a scholarship spoke about the life-changing difference of the organization. Jeremy Crozat received one of the first Emily’s Hope Treatment Scholarships and has been in recovery for five years.
“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September,” Jeremy’s wife, Mariah, said. “I can’t imagine my treatments without Jeremy. I can’t imagine how much more he would have turned inward. He was isolating himself away from us. I fear the addiction coupled with my illness would have taken him away from us.”
Jeremy was honored with the 2025 Emily’s Hope Hero Award for his dedication to the organization’s mission. Since receiving his scholarship, he has donated countless hours to helping others find hope and recovery.
Proceeds from the art show will support Emily’s Hope’s ongoing efforts to fight stigma, provide education, and save lives.