by Sandi Arnold, Director of Development
Having discovered a passion for working with non-profit organizations in the last five years, I am glad to be one of the newest staff members of the Renaissance Team. Though I had experience performing in a county-wide symphonic band during my high school years, I am not a performing artist. My work for the Renaissance revolves around building relationships with existing and new business sponsors, foundations, and community supporters. At this time each year, we hold our Annual Fund Campaign to raise funding from our community supporters.
Why does the Renaissance need to raise money when people buy tickets to our performances? It may be hard to believe, but ticket prices only cover about 30% of our costs to keep the Renaissance’s doors open. We’re grateful to have so many generous foundations, businesses and individuals who contribute to the organization every year who help bridge that financial gap. Without this financial support, the Renaissance would have to significantly increase our ticket prices.
The Renaissance is the cornerstone of our regional arts and cultural community. Several dedicated volunteers and staff work behind the scenes to ensure the Renaissance remains a vibrant cultural center in the heart of Downtown Mansfield. We are here to serve the community by providing quality live performances, and to help generate many fond and lasting memories for our patrons in this historic venue. This is a goal we cannot accomplish alone. We need your help.
This year, the Renaissance has two matching funds for the Annual Fund Campaign. The Renaissance is grateful to be partnering with the Richard and Arline Landers Foundation, which will match up to $25,000 of community contributions. In addition, Sharon Granter, in memory of her late husband Don, will provide matching funds of $20,000 for the campaign. What that means is the Renaissance has between now and December 31, 2017 to raise an additional $45,000 or more so we can receive both of the matching grants. So, for every dollar someone gives, the Renaissance will receive an additional $2 -- the value of your donation will be tripled with these matching grants!
Making a donation is easy, and there are 4 ways! You can visit our website www.mansfieldtickets.com/give and make a secure contribution through PayPal. Or, you can visit or call the Box Office at (419)522-2726, Tuesday through Friday from 12-5 PM and we will assist you. You can also mail your donation to the Renaissance, Post Office Box 789, Mansfield, Ohio 44901.
Thanks for supporting the 2017 Annual Fund Campaign for the Renaissance Performing Arts Association!