photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

Benches created by Van Go artists in 2025 are seen here in this file photo.

Lawrence nonprofit Van Go announced it will unveil 20 colorful benches created during its annual Benchmark campaign next week.

The arts-based social service nonprofit said the unveiling ceremony will be at 5:30 p.m., Friday, July 24, at its center, 715 New Jersey St.

The unveiling of the benches marks the culmination of Van Go’s summer JAMS program for youths ages 14 to 18. The summer program helps teens who have identified barriers to employment and educational attainment and teaches them important life skills, especially for employment.

The Benchmark program began in 1998 and has created over 500 benches, as the Journal-World reported. Clients order them for $1,500, and the benches can be spotted all across the Lawrence community. The list of clients for this year’s benches includes the Watkins Museum of History, Owens Flower Shop, the University of Kansas School of Business and Betty Rae’s Ice Cream.

The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. Parking is available at Van Go, in the public lot to the east across New Jersey Street, at Kennedy Glass to the southeast and along New York and New Jersey s streets. Doors open at 5:15 p.m.