An artist whose work and contributions have helped strengthen many community organizations is sharing his art and experience with the students at King George Community School.

Hugo Alvarado was introduced to the school community through a connection with the family of teacher Jamie Craig. During the fall of 2017, he donated three art kits to the student's in Craig's class and subsequently invited King George staff to one of his shows.

Alvarado, whose art has helped raise funds for many Saskatoon organizations during the past 25 years, auctioned off one of his paintings to support an art program at the school and, with his wife, Julie Kosteniuk, he matched the funds raised through the auction.

The combined donation allowed the school to purchase 20 acrylic art kits for students in grades 5-8. Since then, an art room has been set up at King George and the purchase of additional supplies is allowing more students to create art.

The contributions of Alvarado, CTV Saskatoon's Citizen of the Year in 2017, didn't end there. He was also able to give the students a private lesson on landscapes alongside three of his students from his art class and has committed to providing lessons through the year. 

The students and staff of King George are delighted to be working with Hugo Alvarado and very appreciative of his contributions of time and money to inspire the students' artistic talents.