The Central Topeka Grocery Oasis (CTGO) took a monumental step forward in its mission to restore food security to Central Topeka by hosting an inspiring Art Benefit Sale on December 13-14, 2025. Held as a kickoff event for CTGO’s capital campaign, the sale not only celebrated the beauty of art from around the world but also brought the community together in support of an essential cause. The event successfully raised over $5,000, marking a critical first step toward funding the construction of a much-needed grocery store in the heart of the city.
A World of Art Comes to Topeka
The benefit sale featured a stunning collection of artwork with origins tracing back to the Silk Road, showcasing the rich diversity of cultures from across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. This extraordinary collection was made possible through the generosity of Executive Director Nadia Arbelo and husband, Dr. John Austin “Jamil” Brownson, whose family estate donated many of the pieces. Additionally, members of CTGO’s board contributed art from their personal collections, further demonstrating their commitment to the organization’s mission. The eclectic mix of paintings, textiles, sculptures, and ceramics captivated attendees and highlighted the unifying power of art—a fitting theme for an event centered on building community and addressing food insecurity.
A Step Toward Progress
The funds raised during the Art Benefit Sale will go directly toward CTGO’s capital campaign, which aims to generate the resources needed to break ground on a 14,000-square-foot grocery store in 2025. This future store, to be located at the corner of 12th and Washburn Avenue, will serve the nine central neighborhoods currently designated as a food desert, as well as the greater Topeka community, providing affordable, fresh, and culturally diverse food options. Beyond just groceries, the store will act as a community hub offering essential services include banking, postal options, and utility payment facilities, ensuring that residents have access to vital resources within walking distance of their homes.
Building Momentum Through Community Support
The success of the Art Benefit Sale signals growing momentum for CTGO’s mission. “This event was not just about raising funds but also about fostering awareness and engagement from the community,” said Arbelo. “We’re thrilled by the turnout and support, and this is only the beginning of what we can accomplish together.” The road ahead involves ambitious fundraising goals and tireless community engagement, but events like this prove that Topeka residents are ready to rally behind the cause. With continued support, CTGO can turn its vision into reality, creating a sustainable future where no one in Central Topeka goes hungry.
Join the Movement
CTGO invites the community to join its efforts by volunteering, donating, or attending future events. Together, we can transform Central Topeka into a thriving, food-secure community. Stay tuned for updates on the capital campaign and upcoming initiatives by visiting CTGO’s support page and following us on social media. Let’s make 2025 the year we break ground on a brighter future for Central Topeka! (Photos provided by Nadia Arbelo, Marge Ahrens, and Robert Riley.)
