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Support the Kenan Center!“It is not by man’s purse, but by his character, that he is rich or poor.” William R. Kenan, Jr.2010 Annual Fundraising Campaign Message from Co-Chairs2009 Annual Goal Surpassed! New Fountain Installed Wish List Testimonials Our Programs Corporate Sponsorship
Co-Chairs Margaret and Ron Truax Call for Your Support of the 2010 Annual Fundraising CampaignDownload a 2010 donation form hereMessage from Margaret and Ronald Truax: "How pleased Ron and I are to co-chair the Kenan Center’s Annual Fundraising Campaign for 2010. Although we have often fund raised individually, this is the first time we are doing so together and for a cause near and dear to our hearts. From the very beginning, in the late ‘60s, when Ron served on the committee of 50 community members to determine the direction of this fledgling organization, we have been committed to its mission to serve the community with programs that help to develop mind, body, and spirit for parents and children; young and old. It was at the Kenan Center where families from all across Niagara County came together as friends, neighbors, and as a community. Later, I myself served as the Kenan Center’s board president and was proud to have my daughter follow in my footsteps to take on the leadership role in what has become a community treasure, and valued social and cultural asset both for Lockport and the region. Lockport has a long legacy of providing exceptional education and cultural opportunities to its citizens going back to its earliest days as a booming canal city. Throughout its history, Lockport was the place to go for fine arts and cultural experiences. It was also frequently said that an education in Lockport was equivalent to a college education. These attributes were at the heart of the Kenan Center from the start, and remain central to its mission today. When two of our three children were in grade school, they were involved with the Niagara County Community College NOW Theatre group at the Taylor Theater. As parents, we appreciated how this experience gave them a new discipline to master and also offered new friendships for both. The Kenan Center and its many programs and activities were an intrinsic part of their lives, as we hope it will be for our grandchildren. Today’s families can take advantage of so much: soccer and lacrosse programs along with numerous recreational offerings; a Nursery School; a performing arts series with outstanding national touring artists; community education classes that include Kindermusik for the little ones; gallery exhibitions with a broad array of local, regional and national artists; a music arts program in partnership with the Lockport City School District that has brought string instruction back to the elementary grades; a summer arts programs that provides children exposure to and skill development in music, technical theater, drama, and writing; and special events, such as the 100 American Craftsmen show which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, that appeal to all types of interests and bring thousands of visitors to the Center. In today’s times we are all cognizant of economic realities. The Kenan Center must rely on diverse forms of support, including government, foundations, and individual contributions. Ron and I strongly believe in the work of the Center and extend to all its caring supporters an invitation to join us in giving generously to this year’s campaign. The Kenan Center is unique in our area, providing arts, education and recreation on one campus. It is our cultural oasis. Where else does such an opportunity exist? For us, the Kenan Center has given us a chance to teach our children about community involvement, and has enriched all of us over the years. We hope you share our desire to insure its future by making your contribution to the Annual Fundraising Campaign today!"
New Fountain Recognizes 2008/2009 Donors In recognition of our 2008 and 2009 donors who gave more than $250, a beautiful new fountain has been added to the gardens with a sign recognizing these donors. Your commitment to our mission is deeply appreciated! Kenan Center Wish ListCurrently needed by the Kenan Center:HG Flip camcorder Rug shampooer Pizza cabinet Hot dog roller Set of matching steak knives Large & small microwaves Lateral file cabinet Nursery School: Toaster Hot Plate Digital camera Bookselves Musical instruments such as tamborines, triangles, small drums Books: a list is available from the Nuersey School or Kenan Business Office Stories from Some of Those Who Have Benefited from Kenan Center Programs
Education is the underpinning of the Kenan Center’s mission. In addition to our on-school-time program, we have engaged hundreds of young people, from Kindergarten through High School age, in a week-long performing arts residency with the acclaimed Missoula Children’s Theatre. The experience is not only memorable, but a rare chance for children of different ages to work together as an ensemble as Emily Stoll, veteran of five MCT shows points out:
The Kenan Center plays a significant role in providing the community with access to visual arts through free gallery exhibits, 100 American Craftsmen, and visual arts programs for students and the public. Not only do local and regional artists benefit from exposure, they also gain personal fulfillment from the opportunities the Kenan Center provides for them to share their knowledge and expertise with others. Donald Little, an accomplished artist and docent, is one such volunteer who values the Kenan Center’s role in the community:
The Kenan Center provides many opportunities for members of the community to be involved as volunteers, not only through our programs and events, but through our affiliate groups. Our volunteers provide essential support to the institution, but they also receive much in return. Joyce Lane, who has served as past president of the Kenan Arts Council, was initially attracted to the Center’s gallery exhibits, but has discovered a wealth of rewarding experiences:
The Kenan Center has been able to give young people in the community many opportunities for personal and career development. As one example, Lockport High School students have been able to assit on major stage productions from such national companies brought to Lockport through the Kenan Center's Family Performance Series. Teacher Mark Taylor tells us that these productions have been an enormous opportunity for his students:
Arts & Culutral
Education & History
Sports & Recreation Corporate SponsorshipThe Kenan Center offers a variety of opportunities for businesses to support vital programs. For as little as $25 you can sponsor an All High Photo Show Award, or choose a more substantial sponsorship for such programs as the Performing Arts Series, 100 American Craftsmen, gallery exhibits, arena signs or youth soccer team. To learn more about Corporate Sponsorships, call the Kenan Center at (716)433-2617.
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