Dear Friends of LAVA,
We at the LAVA Center are so grateful for every one of you who has come to our events over the years. Your support of local arts and humanities, and of our creative and educational offerings has made us a proud community hub. Your participation and financial support have fueled LAVA’s success.
In six short years we have presented:
- 151 films
- 202 plays
- 47 art shows
- 18 humanities exhibits
- Scores of civic conversations
- 35 music performances and jam sessions
- Hundreds of open mics and literary readings
- Dozens more workshops, classes, receptions
- Featuring the work of nearly 400 MA creatives:
- poets, playwrights, directors, filmmakers, storytellers, comics,
- musicians, artists, and actors plus 135 writers from every continent
We have accomplished these things honorably, bringing the arts to all income levels, offering a sliding scale for all events, in a space that is physically accessible. We have done it collectively, with the talent, expertise, and creativity of all our staff, and the generosity and unfailing efforts of volunteer staff, particularly of our founder, Jan Maher. But much has been riding on Jan’s shoulders. And Jan is retiring this year.
What most of you do not know is that LAVA may be forced lay off staff and even shut our doors. Grants once relied upon are no longer available and the sacrifices made by our founder are no longer possible.
LAVA’s operating budget is $10,000 a month, only half of which is covered by grants and subrentals.
Individual donations are 30% of most arts nonprofits’ budgets; they’ve been just 16% of ours.
As we face extra financial challenges, we are keenly aware that we are not alone. The current climate has strained individuals, institutions, and organizations both large and small. We know that you are being called upon to hold up more than your share in contributions of both time and money. We ask that as you make your decisions about what to support, you think locally and consider organizations where you can see your dollars working directly for the community. Please consider a donation to the LAVA center at this crucial time of need. Sustaining contributions are especially valued as they help us plan our programming with confidence.
If you can, please make a monthly or annual pledge or a simple one-time gift. (See link below) Every donation is so very appreciated. Sustaining donors join our donation volcano wall display with their own lava drop.
And as always, please stop by to take in a show, share a story, or see our latest exhibit during gallery hours. We hope to see you soon!
Thank you for your continued support.
The LAVA Center, Your Local Access to Valley Arts
