The arts are at a crossroads. As we enter 2025, the uncertainty surrounding arts and cultural funding threatens the very institutions that give our communities life, creativity, and a sense of belonging. Across the country, support for the arts is being questioned, and organizations like the Genesee Valley Council on the Arts must fight harder than ever to preserve and sustain the cultural fabric that connects us all.

Now more than ever, we need your support.

For over 50 years, GVCA has been at the heart of Livingston County’s cultural landscape, championing artists, fostering creativity, and ensuring that the arts remain accessible to all. Whether through our grants for local artists and arts organizations, our dynamic gallery exhibitions, or our educational programs that inspire the next generation, GVCA remains steadfast in its commitment to the arts.

A shining example of our dedication is the New Deal Museum, a one-of-a-kind program that celebrates the legacy of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and its impact on American art and culture. Through this initiative, we preserve the stories and artistic contributions of an era that proved, in the face of adversity, the arts are not a luxury but a necessity. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt once said:

"Art is not a treasure in the past or an importation from another land, but part of the present life of all living and creating peoples."

We at GVCA believe that art and culture are essential to a thriving society—not just as historical artifacts, but as living, breathing forces that shape our communities today. Without them, we risk losing not only our heritage but also the creative spirit that defines us.

To ensure the arts continue to flourish, we are launching Keep the Arts Alive in 2025, an initiative dedicated to sustaining and expanding GVCA’s programs through donor and sponsor support. A key part of this campaign is our The Arts Are Alive 2025 event series, featuring live music benefit concert, square dance and BBQ, a Haunted Museum experience, and a local artisan holiday market—all designed to celebrate and showcase the vibrant talent in our community. Your contribution can directly support these events through special donor and sponsorship levels, which include exclusive benefits such as event recognition, VIP access, and opportunities to connect with artists and performers.

We understand firsthand the profound impact of the arts on our communities. We have witnessed local connections strengthened through projects such as the recent Clara Barton Community Mural in Dansville, funded through our regrant program. We have seen students ignite their passion for creativity during our week-long Summer Camps in Theater Arts, Film, and Visual Arts. We have observed communities uniting around performances, exhibitions, and shared cultural experiences, including a powerful multimedia exhibit where women veterans expressed their struggles and triumphs. Additionally, farmers, farmworkers, and community members have come together to share family recipes and stories through our bilingual cookbook. These meaningful experiences are made possible through the generosity and support of patrons like you.

As someone who has benefited from the work of GVCA—whether as an artist, audience member, or supporter—we ask you to stand with us. Your contribution today ensures that our programs continue, our artists thrive, and our community remains a vibrant hub for culture and creativity.

Please consider making a donation to GVCA today. Whether large or small, every dollar helps us continue our mission to preserve, support, and expand the arts in our region.

Together, we can ensure that the arts remain a vital and enduring part of our community.

With gratitude,

Morgan Hellquist
Executive Director

Keep the Arts Alive in 2025: Sponsorship & Donor Levels

Visionary Sponsor – $10,000+ Only available through April 30th

Premier recognition as the Presenting Sponsor for entire event series
Logo/Name featured on all event materials, signage, and promotions (including press releases, website, and social media)
10 VIP tickets to all Keep the Arts Alive 2025 events
Invite to an exclusive donor appreciation night
Special feature in GVCA’s annual report and donor spotlight
GVCA Basic membership

Cultural Champion – $5,000

Recognition as an Event Sponsor for one Local Arts Are Alive 2025 event
Logo/Name on event signage and materials, website, and social media promotions
Invite to an exclusive donor appreciation night
VIP seating for 6 at sponsored event
GVCA Basic Membership

Creative Catalyst – $2,500

Recognition as a Supporting Sponsor for one event in the Local Arts Are Alive 2025 series
Logo/Name on GVCA website and programs and event signage
4 VIP tickets to sponsored event
Invite to an exclusive donor appreciation night
Recognition in GVCA newsletter
GVCA Basic Membership

Arts Advocate – $1,000

Recognition as an Arts Advocate Sponsor for the campaign
Name listed on GVCA website, programs and select event signage
2 VIP tickets to an event of choice
GVCA membership for one year
GVCA Basic Membership

Community Patron – $500

Name listed on GVCA website as a Patron Donor and select event programs
2 general admission tickets to an event of choice
Special GVCA donor gift
GVCA Basic Membership

Friend of the Arts – $250

Name included on GVCA donor recognition webpage and select event programs
2 general admission ticket to an event of choice
GVCA Basic Membership

Supporter – $100

Name included on GVCA donor recognition webpage
GVCA Basic Membership

Customized Sponsorships Available!