Organization praised for its impact in unifying the community

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On October 11, the Carver Community Center made history by hosting its first-ever Gala event at the elegant Hobson venue. The evening was a spectacular blend of class, purpose, and community pride, leaving everyone in attendance with memories they won’t soon forget.

Guests were treated to a fine dining experience featuring Uncle B’s lemon chicken and steak medallions, complemented by a cash bar provided by the Hobson. The room glowed with warmth and anticipation as the sounds of live jazz filled the air, courtesy of Triology featuring Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Famer Clifford Ratliff on trumpet. The atmosphere was electric, charged with gratitude, excitement, and a shared sense of mission.

One of the night’s highlights was the silent auction held in the Light Room, showcasing artwork from the Carver Kids Afterschool Program and pieces by local artist Heather Fouts. The creativity of the children shone brightly through their fall-themed paintings, clay sculptures, beaded vases, and hand-painted bowls.

Their art not only decorated the tables as centerpieces but also became part of the live auction led by Paul Wyman. Among the auctioned items were two Carver Kids art pieces, paintings by Executive Director JC Barnett III, titled “Bold as the Blues” and “Majesty Rising,” a signed Kokomo Bobkats basketball, and exclusive spirits, including Steph Curry’s signature bourbon, Gentleman’s Cut. The bidding was lively and full of enthusiasm, with one guest remarking that it was “one of the most exciting auctions I’ve ever seen.”

The program was rich with heartfelt messages and inspiration. Pastor Brown of Refreshing Springs Church of God in Christ, a proud Carver alumnus, shared a touching story of how he met his wife as a kindergartener at Carver, complete with a 50-year-old love letter he had written her.

Board President and longtime Carver supporter Bob Knowling offered encouraging words about the organization’s renewed purpose and direction. Executive Director JC Barnett III spoke passionately about Carver’s evolving mission, not just as a recreation hub, but as a center for education, innovation, and growth, especially through its STEM initiatives.

The evening concluded with a powerful message from Katara McCarty, a nationally recognized speaker and creator of the Exhale app, who shared how her beginnings at Carver shaped her journey to success.

It was a night of elegance, purpose, and community unity, one that embodied the spirit of Carver and the bright future it continues to build.