Free Arts for Abused Children received three significant donations at the end of 2020. Our long-time supporters The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation pledged $500,000, spread over two years, to support our strategic growth. The funds will be used to identify alternate programs and re-imagine Free Arts’ traditional programs that can be delivered virtually or with a safe, hybrid model. Additionally, Free Arts will examine the organization with a diversity, equity, and inclusion lens and work to dismantle barriers to serving children and our community in the most equitable way possible.
The Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation made a generous donation to support virtual programs developed due to COVID-19 including Bravery Boxes, Virtual Weekly Mentor Training, Virtual Professional Artist Series, Camp Series, Alumni Connection and Caregiver Community.
The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust granted $150,000 in vital unrestricted funds to support Free Arts in the areas where we need it most.
These gifts are in addition to a three-year sponsorship with Desert Financial Credit Union that provides $100,000 each year to support Free Arts programs and events. In uncertain times, it is critical to have certainty of financial resources. These donations will help Free Arts move rapidly towards our 10-year vision and expansion of our programs.
“Nonprofits were hit hard by COVID-19 and we’re appreciative of our long-time supporters,” said Alicia Sutton Campbell, executive director. “This funding will help keep our programs going virtually and we look forward to slowly bringing back safe, in-person events. One thing that hasn’t changed is the need for arts plus positive adult mentors to help homeless children and those living in foster care build resilience and heal from their trauma.”
Free Arts currently serves more than 6,000 children annually utilizing the talents and skills of 17 staff members, 22 board members and 800 volunteers.
The nonprofit’s 10-year vision includes a statewide expansion and increased programming for alumni as they move into adulthood. Free Arts believes every child living in foster care and emergency shelters in Arizona should have access to resilience-building arts programs and caring adult mentors.
To learn more about ways to support Free Arts mission, visit: https://www.freeartsaz.org/you-can-help/.
