SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – April 22, 2026 – Emily’s Hope is proud to announce the return of its Youth Art Showcase, an event designed to engage students in conversations about resilience, mental health, and substance use prevention through the power of creative expression. The showcase will take place on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 6–8 p.m. at Mosaic Arts & Events.
This event is a key initiative of the Emily’s Hope Youth Prevention Coalition, supported through the organization’s Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant. Middle and high school students from across Sioux Falls were invited to submit original work exploring this year’s theme, “Rise Above,” which encourages youth to share how they rise above using substances and overcome challenges through positive, healthy outlets.
The showcase this year will feature over 40 pieces of student-created visual art, poetry, and dance. The event highlights a wide range of creative expression, with selected works recognized during an awards presentation and performing artists given the opportunity to share their talents live.
The evening will feature guest speaker Sheku Bannister, also known as BIGG SHAKE, a dynamic performer, educator, and community leader who uses music and mentorship to inspire purpose, confidence, and resilience in young people. Through his work in schools and community programs, he empowers youth to find their voice and share their story.
“We continue to be inspired by the creativity and honesty of young people in our community,” said Angela Kennecke, founder and president of Emily’s Hope. “This showcase gives students a platform to share their voices, tell their stories, and encourage their peers to make healthy choices.”
The community is invited to attend this free event and support local youth during an evening that highlights not only artistic talent but also the importance of prevention and living substance-free.
This showcase is part of Emily’s Hope’s ongoing efforts to remove the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and promote prevention through education and youth engagement. The Youth Prevention Coalition brings together schools, healthcare providers, families, and community organizations to empower young people with the knowledge and support they need to make healthy decisions.
Media outlets are encouraged to attend. Interviews are available upon request. For more information, visit emilyshope.charity or contact Kayli Fitz at (605) 376-7450.
About Emily’s Hope
Emily’s Hope is a nonprofit organization working to eliminate the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and to save lives through evidence-informed education, compassionate support, and financial assistance for recovery. Founded by award-winning journalist Angela Kennecke after the tragic overdose death of her daughter Emily, the organization has become a national voice for prevention and hope. Emily’s Hope offers a K–12 substance use prevention curriculum used across the country, the Grieving Out Loud podcast, and on-the-ground initiatives such as naloxone distribution, a Post-Overdose Response Team, and a Youth Prevention Coalition in South Dakota. The organization also provides treatment scholarships to help individuals access care. Learn more about Emily’s Hope at emilyshope.charity.
For additional media information, please visit emilyshope.charity/media.