Friends of St. Avips

Purpose

The Friends of St. Avips is a permanent organization of 40 women who volunteer their efforts to promote interest in, and to provide financial assistance to George A. Spiva Center for the Arts.

In addition to the annual ball, the organization assists in receptions at the Center sponsors exhibits, and participates in other fundraising events for the Center. St. Avips operates independently of the Center, but with its full cooperation and support.

Upcoming – 64th Annual St. Avips Ball

Upcoming – 64th Annual St. Avips Ball.

We hope you will join us as we celebrate our 64th Annual Ball on Friday, May 1st, 2026 — for the Fleur de Mai Ball, a celebration of May Day.

We will once again host our ball in the breathtaking space of the Harry M. Cornell Arts and Entertainment Complex which houses the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts. The Friends of St. Avips has had the purpose of supporting the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts through fundraising efforts of its annual ball, since inception in 1963.

Since 1963, the Friends of St. Avips committee has raised over $1.8 million dollars for Spiva by hosting the annual ball. Through fundraising efforts of the Friends of St. Avips, Spiva has expanded programs to better serve our community and the surrounding area — making Joplin an even more desirable place to live and raise a family.

Thank you for your continued support of The Friends of St. Avips and the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts.

We look forward to celebrating with you at the annual ball on Friday, May 1st, 2026, for the Fleur de Mai Ball.

If you would like an invitation to the ball, please provide us with your information.