The Kresge Foundation has awarded a $150,000 grant to the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts through a new program designed to help nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties achieve long-term sustainability. The Macomb Center was the only organization in Macomb County to receive a grant, which will be distributed in $50,000 increments over the next three years.
"Arts and cultural organizations enrich the fabric of daily life, nurture individual development, strengthen communities and contribute to the regional economy," said Rip Rapson, president and CEO of The Kresge Foundation in announcing the new multi-year grant program.
The Kresge Foundation grant will support the operations of the Macomb Center, which annually hosts more than 200,000 visitors and offers a diverse slate of 40 professional shows, series of summer workshops designed to spark young talent as well as a lifelong appreciation of the arts, comprehensive show choir programs for K-12 and college students, high-quality venue to support local performances and meaningful volunteer opportunities. The Macomb Center is the only entity in Macomb County designated as an Anchor Organization by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, which identifies institutions with the capacity, financially and institutionally, to implement multi-level programs that are widely recognized within their region as hubs of significant arts and cultural activity.
"The unique approach of the Kresge grant in supporting operational expenses helps us to continue focusing on strengthening the Macomb Center's role as a cultural asset, even in these tough economic times," said Christine Guarino, director of cultural affairs, Macomb Center for the Performing Arts. "The ability to maintain a diverse range of quality experiences while keeping ticket prices affordable is an important contribution to our community's cultural and economic vibrancy."
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts (www.macombcenter.com) is a community enrichment program of Macomb College dedicated to providing a diverse range of family-oriented cultural enrichment experiences. The Macomb Center presents high-quality professional performances, offers educational outreach in the arts and, in partnership with the adjacent Macomb Cultural Center, creates unique opportunities for multifaceted cultural programming.
The Kresge Foundation is a private, national foundation established in 1924 by Sebastian S. Kresge to promote human progress. In 2006, it awarded approximately $150 million in grants to nonprofit organizations in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa and Mexico, and had year-end assets of $3.3 billion. The foundation is headquartered in Michigan.
Media Contact: Jeanne M. Nicol
Phone: 586.445.7204
Email: nicolj@macomb.edu