April Arts Marathon Participant: Lauren Olitski
Mission: Painting, mostly. Various materials, mediums…
Message: Now more than ever we need creative ways to provide support for those who are fleeing violence and oppression in their home countries.
As many of you who followed my studio practice during the 2025 May Marathon already know, the work that the Community Asylum Seekers Project does for their clients seeking refuge in Vermont is vital! CASP staff are now serving 93 clients coming from Afghanistan, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Eritrea, Ghana, Honduras, Liberia, Mexico, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Sudan, Tibet, Venezuela, and Yemen. Today refugees must also plan for the worst–if parents are detained, who will care for their children? In addition to all the support CASP staff have already been assisting with, they now also guide them through the heartbreaking process of setting up temporary guardianship.
The Arts Marathon is CASP’s largest fundraiser. In 2025 the May Marathon raised $30,000. In 2026 we hope to raise $50,000.
Sponsors like you are critical to CASP’s ability to accompany asylum seekers who, against all odds, continue to strive for a life of dignity and independence. Every donation directly supports CASP’s mission of cultivating a supportive community for asylum seekers in Southern Vermont.
During the month of April, artists will commit to practicing and sharing their work five days a week with sponsors who pledge donations to CASP–turning daily creativity into critical community support. Together, we support asylum seekers who in turn enrich our community with their determination, energy, and strength!
Last year I gave away 33 small paintings to anyone donating $50 or more. As we are trying to raise even more this year, I’m excited to offer a small painting to anyone that donates $100 or more. I had a blast doing this and can’t wait to do it again!
No matter the size of your donation, I’m looking forward to sharing my studio process with you during the month of April via almost daily emails linking to my blog.