|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
A Danville coalition of art groups convened last week to share their strengths and find ways to raise money.
“All of the arts groups face common challenges in funding and dwindling audiences,” said Michelle Lacy, Recreation Services Manager for the Town of Danville.
The Danville Arts: Stronger Together task force met Tuesday evening, Jan. 30, at a workshop called “Thinking Bigger: How to raise visibility and funds for the emerging nonprofit.” It was held at Danville Town Meeting Hall. The coalition exchanged resources and discussed new marketing and fundraising ideas.
The task force includes the Eugene O’Neill Foundation, Danville Children’s Musical Theater, Role Players Ensemble, Museum of the San Ramon Valley and the Danville Area Cultural Alliance.
Approximately 40 people comprising coalition members and town staff attended the workshop. Andrew Russo, who has extensive experience working for small, nonprofit organizations, presented information.
Coalition members discussed raising their visibility by placing an insert in Danville’s winter activity guide, said Lacy.
“It’s wonderful that they are getting together,” she said. Their goal, she added, is to create a vibrant arts community.
The coalition was formed in October 2005 after members of arts groups came together at the request of the Danville Arts Commission. Members have a meeting every month to discuss the challenges they face and the strengths they have.
“They find commonalities,” Lacy said.
The group also has recommended that the Town of Danville host a jazz event fundraiser to benefit Danville arts.
The coalition is part of the town’s mission to create a community through people, parks and programs, according to town staff. Some of the goals of the Parks and Recreation Department include strengthening community image and sense of place, strengthening safety and security, facilitating community problem solving, supporting economic development, increasing cultural unity and fostering human development.
