Annual Appeal 2012-2013
Dear Huntington Arts Council Friend,
As Long Island recovers from Superstorm Sandy - and the nor’easter just one week later - we wanted to reach out to you, our loyal supporters, to let you know that our thoughts are with you, especially those who suffered the heartbreak and devastation of losing your home and possessions. We hope that you and your loved ones are safe and that life has begun to return to normal.
Next year, the Huntington Arts Council celebrates its 50th anniversary. As we reflect on what the arts have meant to Huntington and to greater Long Island, we understand more clearly than ever that, especially in a time of crisis, the arts can help to heal a grieving community. The arts provide not just comfort and hope, but also economic benefit. Each year cultural venues and events attract millions of visitors-and tens of millions of dollars-to the Long Island economy. These economic boosts are even more crucial at a time when the Island is trying to recover from the devastation the storm wrought.
As we begin to recover from the devastating events of the last month, we want to assure you that, with your support, the Huntington Arts Council will continue to provide services that have been deemed “vital to the cultural life of New York State” by the New York State Council on the Arts. Since 1979, we have proudly retained the NYSCA title of “Primary Institution”, and the responsibilities the title brings regarding both connecting artists with economic and professional resources as well as offering guidance in best business practices for other arts and cultural organizations.
When you contribute to the Huntington Arts Council, you can rest assured that your donation will be used in the most cost-efficient manner possible. For every dollar raised by HAC, 88 cents goes directly to support our world-class programs. As a savvy donor, you’re aware of just how impressive that number is.
Through its programs, HAC serves more than one million Long Islanders each year. Whether you and your family have enjoyed our Summer Arts Festival, our juried art exhibits, our arts-in-education programs, or any of our many other innovative programs, we want you to know that we intend to be here for at least another 50 years, offering Long Islanders programs that provide beauty, comfort and intellectual stimulation.
Unlike many other Long Island charities, we reach out just once a year to ask for donations from our supporters. Unfortunately, our appeal has been overshadowed by recent events, and we understand that many donors will opt to donate to charities that provide services directly to storm victims. However, we hope you will consider continuing your support this year-no matter what the amount.
We wish you and your family a joyous Holiday season and hope to see you often at our many wonderful programs.
Sincerely,
P.S. You can become a FAMILY SPONSOR at the Huntington Summer Arts Festival! Please contact Diana for more information at dcherryholmes@huntingtonarts.org or 631.271-8423.x13.
