An update on grants, gifts and sponsorships:

Second Stage | Amherst receives first VCA grant
Second Stage|Amherst has received a $7,500 grant from the Virginia Commission for the Arts to be used for startup funding for things such as part-time staffing and office equipment, and also for equipment needed for performances and exhibitions. While the grant is quite generous, it is not meant to completely fund these needs, but rather to help subsidize contributions from the public. The mission of Second Stage is to be a center for creativity and community, to create a place for use by and for the enjoyment of all residents of Amherst County and its visitor. It is our responsibility to make this beautiful dream grow.

In reviewing the grant application, the VCA review panel offered the following comments:

• "Board and personnel are highly qualified; this is an impressive team of professional and engaged individuals."
• "The community needs this center."
• "Strong in-kind contributions show good community investment."
• "A worthy project that will greatly benefit the community it serves."

Gifts received, too!
Helping these and other grant dollars go further, board member Cooke Harvey and his father, M. Cooke Harvey, have donated a sound system to Second Stage. A sound board, speakers, amps, and many needed cables all are giving us a great start on a professional system.
We have also purchased a collection of microphones found on Craigslist at a fraction of the retail price. This purchase was funded by the Greater Lynchburg Community Trust grant received earlier this summer. That grant was to be used for lighting, sound equipment and appearance upgrades. The Harvey's generous gift helps to match that grant and extend its effectiveness.

Last but hardly least ... our community SPONSORS!
We couldn't be what we are and won't be what we plan to become without our area sponsors. Our community has been gracious with gifts and donations this year. For Second Stage to bring you the performances and the market of fresh produce, to renovate the building for public and private use and for affordable space for studios and offices .... none of it could be possible without the generosity of our friends and supporters.

If you want to find out how you might help, visit our How to Help page.

OUR 2015 COMMUNITY DONORS:
Town of Amherst
Bank of the James
Mary Snow Realty
Thurman & Mary Gayle Davis
Leah Settle Gibbs
Suzanne Gouyer
Tom & Janie Hall
Ned & Lynn Kable
Drs. Sally Mock & Bill Brown
Joe & Suny Monk
John & Myrna Patteson
Bill & Claudia Tucker
Lindy & Margaret Ann White

Thanks to each of you!