You’ll see more than photos.
You’ll glimpse into the hearts of youth in foster care.
MARE’s biggest event of the year is the launch of our Heart Gallery photographic exhibit and the premiere of the Heart Gallery film. This inspiring event celebrates the voices and hopes of youth in foster care, and it reminds us all of the power of connection and belonging.
After the premiere, the Heart Gallery exhibit's display and banner stands travel to locations across Michigan, sharing portraits of youth waiting for their forever families.
The Exhibit
The Michigan Heart Gallery is a traveling photographic exhibit featuring portraits of youth in foster care who are waiting to be adopted. This year’s display features 60 youth, and it was made possible by the generosity of more than 16 professional photographers across the state who volunteered their time and talents. It consists of a main display and banner displays, which can be used independently or in conjunction with the main exhibit.
Year-round, we also host MIHeart.org, allowing the youth featured in the exhibit to shine online for all to see.
The Michigan Heart Gallery is more than a display: it's a movement of hope that opens hearts, sparks conversations, and inspires individuals and families to adopt.
The Film
The Heart Gallery film brings the display's photographs to life. It features some of the incredible young people from the photo exhibit who bravely share their voices and hopes to help all youth waiting for adoption. Professionals and families are also featured to share their experiences and thoughts on a theme related to adoption.
Through laughter, honesty, and heartfelt moments, the film allows you to truly see the kids: who they are, what they love, what they dream about, and how much belonging matters to them. The experience will stay with you long after the credits roll. If you’d like to see past films, they’re all available on our Heart Gallery Playlist on YouTube.
Michigan Heart Gallery Film
"Community," the 2025 Heart Gallery Film
The Premiere
Every September, we unveil the new photographic display and latest Heart Gallery film. We roll out the red carpet and invite the stars of the film, our waiting youth, to a movie theater premiere. The public is welcome, too, making this event a unique opportunity to meet these inspiring kids in person. Attendees view the display, watch the film together, and have lunch. Afterward, prospective adoptive parents can join an Adoption Navigator presentation to ask questions and learn more about adoption.
To attend the Heart Gallery Premiere, sign up for our email list to stay informed about upcoming events or visit our statewide calendar of events.
Want to help kids in foster care?
Bring the Heart Gallery photo exhibit to your event, business, place of worship, or school! Book the main display and/or banner stands to allow waiting youth to be seen by families in your community. It’s free to use, and we cover all shipping costs.