Ojai Art Center Launches Fundraising Season

The Longest, Continuously-Running Non Profit Art Center In Southern California Is Seeking Support

The Ojai Art Center officially kicks off its annual fundraising drive this month. The goal – to raise $75,000 in one month!

“We’re tremendously grateful to our membership base, volunteers and donors – without them the Ojai Art Center would not be what it is today,” said Ruth Hemming, Board President. “These past few years have been so economically difficult for the community that we have put off our annual drive and have relied on the interest from our endowment fund as well as the programs and special events which have provided some financial support.”

“In the past, capital campaigns such as this one have repaired and enhanced our 72-year-old building, adding a new roof, new plumbing, and electrical upgrades, and a new storage building for our Theater, among smaller improvements,” Hemming said. Previous capital campaigns have netted from $50,000 to over $100,000 to support the Art Center facilities and programs.

As with any 70+ year old structure, the need for vigilant maintenance and upgrades is necessary. Proceeds from this year’s capital campaign will be used to further the improvements on the theater, gallery, and outdoor stage and patio. “From past proceeds, we’ve been able to revamp our back courtyard into a stage and patio to host events. Jammin’ at the AC, the current 8 week outdoor concert series on Sunday evenings, has been a huge success”, said Teri Mettala, the Center’s Executive Director for the past 31 years. “We were able to rehab this little-used space into a wonderful outdoor venue for concerts and theater,” Mettala said. “What could be better than listening to fabulous local talent under the stars, enjoying a beverage and an appetizer selection prepared by our own culinary whiz, Oatley Kidder?”

When asked what differentiates the Art Center from other local arts- related non-profits, Mettala responds, “We have been serving Ojai residents for seven decades. Our longevity and commitment have proven that we are here to stay and will continue to provide the facilities, education and opportunities to keep the arts alive and available in our community. We hope each of you will take advantage of the many programs the Ojai Art Center has to offer.”

In addition to the productions and programs offered, the Art Center also works with other non-profit organizations in the community to provide affordable venues for their events. The Ojai Studio Artists, the Ojai Music Festival, the Ojai Storytelling Festival and the Ojai Film Festival and Film Society as well as many other organizations utilize the Art Center as their event headquarters or to host productions throughout the year. “There are few people in this community that haven’t been touched by the Art Center in some fashion over the years,“ said Mettala.

About The Ojai Art Center:
Established in 1939, the Ojai Art Center’s mission is simple: to support and advance interest in the arts. For additional information, donations, and other inquiries call 805-646-0117 or visit them online at www.OjaiArtCenter.org. The Ojai Art Center is a 501 c 3 non-profit organization.

Help support the Ojai Art Center’s mission by making a donation or becoming a member today!