FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Arts Council of New Westminster launching campaign for May 5th global #GivingTuesdayNow
FRIENDS OF THE ARTS COUNCIL #NEWWEST CAMPAIGN 2020 TO RAISE $35,000 TO SUPPORT ACNW PROGRAM DELIVERY AND SERVICES
April 26, 2020 (New Westminster, BC) —
In response to having to cancel and postpone numerous events resulting in significant sponsorship and event revenues, the Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is launching the Friends of Arts Council #NewWest Campaign 2020 to support the continuity of ACNW’s programs through virtual delivery, along with sustaining services provided for the arts and artists of New Westminster. The campaign will launch on Tuesday, May 5th to coincide with #GivingTuesdayNow – a new global day of giving and unity scheduled as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19.
As a lead gift, ACNW President Bob Crockett and his wife, Cathy Crockett, have made a gracious donation in the amount of $2,500. This lead contribution has inspired donations from other ACNW board members and will hopefully inspire donations from community members who value the arts and the work of The Arts Council of New Westminster.
Donations to the Friends of Arts Council #NewWest Campaign 2020 will ensure that ACNW continues to help make our community a better place to live, work and play. Funds from the campaign will allow the ACNW to continue to be an information and resource centre for artistic and cultural projects and deliver adapted programs such as the New West Craft Virtual Market and the ArtsNW Podcast. Raised funds will also assist the Arts Council in continuing to host the community through the weekly New Westminster Cultural Roundtables using ZOOM on Thursdays at 3:00pm as a forum for sharing amongst artists and artisans. These programs provide opportunities for community cohesion through facilitating arts and cultural activities in New Westminster.
“We truly believe that a vibrant local Arts scene is essential to a livable city. The Arts Council has an important role in helping the city reconnect and heal from this pandemic.” says ACNW President Bob Crockett. “We look forward to giving artists back their voices and helping people reconnect through shared experiences. A vibrant, viable arts scene keeps the “New” In New Westminster.”
The Friends of Arts Council #NewWest Campaign 2020 will culminate on July 1st, Canada Day, with the goal of raising $35,000, representing $1,000 for each year since The Gallery at Queen’s Park was founded in 1985.
To make a donation, visit www.acnw.ca/donate
Joining the New West Craft markets this year has been one of the best choices I have made for my business – it allowed me to meet other makers and engage with my community. The fact that the Arts Council of New Westminster, adapted so well to the Covid crisis by making a virtual market for their creators made all the difference. It has allowed me to continue to strengthen the bonds I have made through the market and find new customers while social distancing. I am grateful for their support.
Britt MacDuff, Emerald and Ginger
The Arts Council of New Westminster is a wonderful organization that brings awareness to local artists and provides us with a platform to express ourselves through our work. During this time of uncertainty and a long road with no clear end in sight ahead of us the New West Craft Virtual markets give us local artists a bit of hope. I am so grateful for all the hard work that is put into them as they keep us in the awareness of local consumers in a time where those of us who rely on markets and trade shows for sales are struggling to keep our small businesses afloat.
Paula Godden, The Pirate + The Gypsy Designs
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About the Arts Council of New Westminster
Founded in 1967, The Arts Council of New Westminster is a community arts organization built by artists, audiences, and arts groups who share an interest in visual, performing and literary arts. The Arts Council’s role in the community is to advocate for the arts and foster support for those engaging in artistic and cultural endeavours.
For more information about The Arts Council of New Westminster, visit http://www.acnw.ca. We can be reached at info@acnw.ca.
About #GivingTuesdayNow
#GivingTuesdayNow is a global day of giving and unity that will take place on May 5, 2020 as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. We invite all Canadians to join us in demonstrating the power of kindness and generosity.
More info: https://givingtuesday.ca/gtnow
Media Contact:
Stephen O’Shea, Executive Director
Arts Council of New Westminster
info@acnw.ca | 604 525 3244 | www.acnw.ca
