Funds raised at CAP’s annual gala will expand arts education programs and support teaching fellowships across Northeast Florida schools.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Cathedral Arts Project (CAP) marked a major fundraising milestone during its 21st annual Spring for the Arts gala, held Friday, April 17 at Epping Forest Yacht & Country Club. The event brought together community supporters and raised $764,408 to benefit CAP’s REIMAGINE Campaign, which expands arts education programs across Northeast Florida.

“This community showed up once again to champion children, arts education and our REIMAGINE campaign,” said Rev. Kimberly L. Hyatt, CAP President & CEO. “This tremendous support equips us to continue helping children discover their voices and their potential, which ultimately makes the First Coast a better place for everyone.”

Speakers included Honorary Chairs Frances and Anthony Jabbour, along with Henry, a fifth-grade CAP student at Highlands Elementary School.

“At CAP, we learn more than how to sing, act or paint. We learn how to listen, how to understand others, and how to have the courage to do what is right—even when it’s hard,” Henry said. “One day, I could be an animator, a voice-over character or a lawyer. I don’t know. What I do know is that I will take the lessons I’ve learned in the arts and use them to help make the world a better place.”

Kristine Cherek and Kirk Larsen were honored as the 2026 Guardians of the Arts for their contributions to advancing and safeguarding the arts on the First Coast. Cherek served on CAP’s board of directors from 2017 to 2024 and chaired the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2023. The pair also chaired Spring for the Arts in 2023.

They were presented with a sculptural shield created by Jenny K. Hager, a professor of sculpture at the University of North Florida. Hager, known for her work in steel, cast iron and found objects, designed the piece to reflect the power of unexpected connections.

Event chairs Marisa and Frank Martire, along with sponsors, the Delores Barr Weaver Forever Event Fund, board members and volunteers, were credited with helping produce the event.

Since its inception, Spring for the Arts has raised more than $10 million for arts education in Northeast Florida. The fundraiser supports programming for students across the region.

CAP’s REIMAGINE Campaign seeks to raise $26 million by summer 2026. The 22nd annual Spring for the Arts is scheduled for 2027.