Grant challenges EAC
Friday, August 28, 2009
An anonymous donor has given the Emporia Arts Council an opportunity to reach its $2.8 million goal in slightly more than one month, if enough additional donors are found.
EAC Executive Director Melissa Windsor announced Thursday afternoon that the anonymous donor will give $75,000 if other donors contribute $62,000 by the deadline.
“The donor is a strong supporter of EAC and Emporia,” Windsor said. “He and his family want to see EAC secure the $245,000 challenge grant from the Jones Trust and begin construction as soon as possible. ...
“The donor is incredibly proud of the 344 individuals, families, companies and foundations who have been so generous to this campaign. The idea is to provide additional motivation and inspiration to the community to help complete the campaign and start building.”
The public phase of the fundraising campaign began two years ago, Windsor said.
The new arts council building is to be constructed north of the Granada Theatre, and will involve razing three existing buildings that currently are empty.
The arts center will hold studios and galleries, conference meeting rooms, a kitchen, a small theater and other amenities that are intended to encourage art and art appreciation, as well as complement the Granada’s capabilities. Programs, workshops and exhibitions also will be enhanced after the two-story center is built.
“Beyond its practical purposes, the new facility also serves to reinforce EAC’s believe that arts and culture in its many forms serves to build a more cohesive, cooperative and original community.”
For more information, or to make a donation, call Windsor at 343-6473.
The deadline to meet the challenge is Sept. 30.