Press release from Arts United:
Arts United Fund Drive a Success
(July 16, 2010) – Arts United leaders are pleased to announce the annual fund drive has surpassed last year’s fundraising efforts. The annual fund drive takes place from February through June. Arts United provides funding, facilities and administrative services for arts organizations and is the region’s advocate for cultural development.
For two decades, Arts United raised over $1 million each year to support arts organizations and, despite falling below that goal last year, the target for 2010 was held high. At this time, the non-profit is at 97.5% of its goal and is anticipating contributions to push it over the million mark by the end of the year. This accomplishment during an economic downturn is a positive indicator for the arts.
“We are confident we’ll be able to regain previous levels of funding sooner than later,” says Jim Sparrow, Executive Director. “This increase over last year is evidence that our donors are determined to help us meet the needs of arts and culture organizations.”
“Given the confidence our investors have in our work, we are moving forward with our strategic plan developed several years ago,” says Sparrow. Results of the 2010 fund drive mean Arts United will be able to continue to support Neighborhood Grants and other projects started before the decline and will maintain 10-funded member groups at their current level of support.
Arts United has been working over the past few years with a wide variety of non-profit organizations through collaborations, meetings and workshops designed to encourage efficiency. These programs became more relevant when the economy weakened and have proven to be helpful in strengthening the non-profit community. Like many of the workshop participants, Arts United has been implementing cost-saving measures and recently consolidated facilities by moving staff into the Arts United Center. As a leader for the arts community, Arts United intends to emerge from the recession stronger than ever.
About Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne
Incorporated in 1955, Arts United is the third oldest united arts fund in the United States and the second largest arts council in the State of Indiana. As the umbrella organization for nonprofit arts groups in northeast Indiana, Arts United provides leadership to the local arts community and is the largest single source of financial support for the arts in the region.
Related Images:
