ABOUT US
OUR MISSION
TO INSPIRE CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY BY PROVIDING A PLACE WHERE THE CULTURAL, CIVIC, AND ECONOMIC VITALITY OF AMHERST COUNTY IS ENCOURAGED.
SAVING AN AMHERST LANDMARK
HISTORY
The old Amherst Baptist Church was the home of that church's congregation until 2005. Its sanctuary was constructed in 1882, making it the second oldest religious structure still standing in the Town of Amherst.
The old Amherst Baptist Church was the home of that church's congregation until 2005. Its sanctuary was constructed in 1882, making it the second oldest religious structure still standing in the Town of Amherst.
Amherst County purchased the building with intentions to re-purpose it for government office space but studies proved that it wasn't financially wise. They started discussions of demolition to clear space for a metal office building in its place. That's when this merry band of citizens spoke up and asked to discover alternative uses.
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Starting in 2012, a grassroots group took the initiative to save a historic structure in the heart of Amherst, VA, and to re-purpose it as a creative community center. Located in the middle of a vibrant village, the goal was to provide a gathering place for public events such as performances, meetings, classes and workshops, community forums, and a farmers' market. The complete dream was to provide studios and office spaces for rent.
All of those things are now happening! In 2015, Second Stage | Amherst signed a lease with Amherst County allowing this not-for-profit organization the opportunity to convert the historic building into a center for creativity and community! We have installed handicapped-accessible facilities, repainted the beautiful pressed metal ceiling in the performance space, and upgraded the HVAC systems. The original pews have been replaced with stackable chairs for flexible space use. Our studio spaces are rented by artists, classes and small businesses. Many area organizations are holding regular meetings in our public spaces and we offer affordable rental space to the community for meetings and events. |
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VALUES
We believe that continued use of historic structures anchors healthy communities.
We believe that access to arts and culture enriches the fabric of community life.
We believe that citizen participation makes a difference in the lives of both individuals and communities.
We believe that the success of local small business contributes to a thriving community.
We believe that continued use of historic structures anchors healthy communities.
We believe that access to arts and culture enriches the fabric of community life.
We believe that citizen participation makes a difference in the lives of both individuals and communities.
We believe that the success of local small business contributes to a thriving community.
WE ARE...
- asking for assistance from community volunteers and organizations with a skill and knowledge to help with the restoration of this historic structure.
- offering rental agreements for short term rentals.
- encouraging all to remember this new beautiful center for community when scheduling your next event.
- requesting support in the form of monetary donations for general operating expenses.
- planning performances and events for the coming seasons.
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CONTACT US
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Amherst County Chamber of Commerce 2019 Non-Profit Business of the Year
We're thrilled and honored to be voted 2019 Nonprofit Business of the Year by the Amherst County Chamber of Commerce. Many thanks to everyone who is helping us achieve our mission to inspire creativity and community in Amherst. |
