COEUR d'ALENE - Creating faces of hope.

That's the challenge for 10 local artists who have been assigned to paint, sculpt, paper mache, and design what those faces look should like.

A daunting assignment, since it's an artistic spin on an otherwise difficult subject.

"We're so fortunate to have such wonderful talent in our community," said Beth Barclay, ICARE Program Director for St. Vincent de Paul. "And we were looking for a way to really showcase that talent and combine it with an evening of strengthening families."

Each of the 10 artists created a mask that will play center stage at ICARE's inaugural fundraiser, Faces of Hope, Friday at the Art Spirit Gallery in downtown Coeur d'Alene.

There they will be auctioned off and all the proceeds will go to the child abuse prevention program of St. Vincent de Paul.

"I don't know how the others will look or what the other artists will do," said Rhea Giffin, a local artist designing her mask propped up by a hand holding the sign for love. "But it's a good cause and I'm definitely excited to see what they do."

Like Giffin, all the artists have local ties, including Donna Bain, Allan Dodge, Lori Hintz, Charleen Martin, Gregg Perrenoud, Patty Sgrecci, Hayley Shortridge, Stephen Shortridge and Iva Talacko.

"It's a growing part of our community," Barclay said of the art scene. "I think there's a lot of energy there."

Like many nonprofits across the state, ICARE has seen its funding cut, but hopes to regain some of those funds through what it hopes becomes an annual event. They would like to add more artists next year.

"Everybody's struggling and we're no different," Barclay said, adding that ICARE worked with 500 families last year through proactive methods like home-visiting and parenting classes.

But for every dollar invested in child abuse prevention, it saves the state around $17 in future services that can stem from abuse, such as juvenile detention, mental health and substance abuse.

"There's such a huge success rate with what we do," she said. "It's an incredible feeling to turn a family around and give them the tools to nurture their children and help them in such a positive way."

The benefit event begins at 7 p.m. and will feature catering provided by Greenbriar Catering, and live music by Unstrung. The first glass of wine will be complimentary as well. Tickets cost $50.

Info: 676-1515 ext. 313