(Gary, IND) - The Gary Alumni Pathways to Students (GAPS) organization continues to make a powerful impact in partnership with the Gary Community School Corporation (GCSC)—empowering students through career readiness, academic enrichment, and cultural pride.
This past weekend, GAPS hosted its annual fundraising soirée, “Canvas of Greatness,” celebrating community, creativity, and the promise of Gary’s youth. The event featured the work of acclaimed Gary artist PeQue, whose collaboration with GCSC students inspired the “Greatness of Gary” billboard campaign, a vibrant public art project that showcases both the talent of local youth and the enduring legacy of Gary’s most influential figures.
Art Meets Education: The Greatness of Gary
Through grant funding from the Legacy Foundation, GAPS and PeQue partnered with students from Gary Middle School to create a series of billboards celebrating Gary natives who have made significant contributions across industries and generations. Moving beyond the well-known Jackson family legacy, students designed artwork honoring six Gary icons—each representing resilience, creativity, and community leadership.
“This project gave our students more than just an art experience—it gave them ownership of their story,” said a GAPS representative. “They learned that greatness isn’t just something that comes from Gary—it’s still here, living and growing within them.”
The collaboration aligns with GAPS’s mission to bridge opportunity gaps for students by combining exposure, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences. By connecting students with professionals in the arts, education, and industry, GAPS helps turn classroom learning into pathways toward meaningful careers.
Investing in Students’ Futures
Beyond the billboard project, GAPS works year-round alongside GCSC to prepare students for academic, career, and personal success. The organization recently hosted Career Days at every elementary and middle school across the district—bringing professionals from a variety of fields into classrooms to share their stories and inspire young minds.
Next month, GAPS will partner once again with GCSC for the Annual College and Career Fair at West Side Leadership Academy, connecting high school students with colleges, universities, and employers from across the region.
“Our students are our future,” said a GCSC spokesperson. “Partnerships like the one we have with GAPS show what’s possible when alumni and the community invest in our youth. Together, we are building the foundation for success—academically, creatively, and personally.”
Canvas of Greatness Soirée: A Celebration with Purpose
Saturday’s soirée brought together community leaders, alumni, and supporters for an evening of art, wine, and live jazz, featuring an exclusive auction of PeQue’s original works. The funds raised will help GAPS continue expanding programming across Gary and Lake County.
Last year alone, GAPS served more than 21,000 students, offering mentorship, exposure to career pathways, and resources designed to help students thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Join the Movement: Support GAPS
GAPS invites alumni, businesses, and community members to join in its mission by volunteering, donating, or collaborating on upcoming student initiatives. Every contribution helps ensure that Gary students have the opportunity to dream, create, and achieve greatness. For more information on how to get involved visit https://gapsgary.org/. For more information on the Gary Community School Corporation, visit https://www.garycsc.k12.in.us/