Local Art Students Raise Awareness Through A Unique Car Project

It's Amazing What People Can Do Together!

Art and awareness unite once again as O’Gorman High School art students prepare to transform a VW Beetle into a powerful symbol of hope. On Wednesday, July 16 at 9 a.m., students will repaint the Emily’s Hope VW Bug at Autoland (2500 N. Maple Lane) ahead of the annual Emily’s Hope Cruise Night car show, which kicks off at 5 p.m.

Guided by art teacher Patrick Frankman, the students will use their talents to honor Emily Groth, a talented young artist who tragically died from fentanyl poisoning in 2018.

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Their work is inspired by Emily’s original art and serves to highlight the mission of Emily’s Hope—raising awareness of substance use disorder and the fentanyl epidemic.

The VW Bug, donated by Autoland and first painted last year, has become a mobile piece of art and an emotional centerpiece of the cause. The newly repainted bug will be unveiled during Cruise Night, where families and car enthusiasts gather in support.

“We’re honored to give students a creative way to be part of our mission,” said Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope. “The painted bug is more than just a car; it’s a moving piece of art and a powerful reminder of the impact one life can have.”

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Emily’s Hope is a nonprofit organization working to eliminate the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and to save lives through evidence-informed education, compassionate support, and financial assistance for recovery.

For more information, see Emily's Hope.