Single Mothers Outreach is inviting members of the community to become a part of this year’s Empowering Hearts Gala and Art Exhibit, entitled “Breaking Barriers”.

SMO is currently accepting nominations for Santa Clarita women that have broken through emotional, social, economic or political barriers. The exhibit will feature the art of 12 local artists that will attempt to capture the essence of these inspiring nominees through photography, sculpture or painting.

According to SMO, nominees may be a part of a local resident’s organization, family or network of associates and should be recognizable for their transformation in their own life or the lives of others.

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The art will be judged at the Gala event being held at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center at the College of the Canyons Valencia Campus on Saturday, November 19. The event will include an evening of wine, hors d’oeuvres and music.

A grand prize for the most compelling story among all of the nominees will also be awarded at the Gala Event.

$1,000 sponsorships are being accepted by SMO to support the programs that are intended to change the lives of single parent families in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Prior to the Gala, sponsors will be highlighted with an art exhibit at the Westfield Town Center Mall during a kick-off event on Thursday, September 9 that will pair nominees and artists.

For their contributions, sponsors will receive various benefits including media exposure, participation in the kick-off event and honored guest status along with their nominee at the Gala event.

The art exhibit will continue to be displayed at Westfield town Center Mall throughout the 2011 holiday season.

If you know a women who has inspired you in one of the many areas described above and want to nominate them, the form is available on SMO’s website. The deadline for nominations is August 26.