News

The following is from The Depot Foundation 2011 Fall Expressions publication.
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Upfront:

Letter from the Chair, Bob Wahman

The Depot Foundation has a newly revised Mission: “The Depot Foundation is dedicated to preserving the Historic Union Depot as a vibrant and welcoming forum for the arts, culture and history through managing and growing a permanent endowment.” This stated Mission was created during our Strategic Planning work carried out over the spring months. Strategic Goals adopted during this process include:

• Create and promote an identity for the Depot Foundation
• Improve fundraising planning and results
• Facilitate development of a shared vision and business plan among Depot stakeholders
• Develop and implement a strategic grant-making process that supports the Foundation’s mission

We are now creating a work plan with specific objectives that aim at realizing these goals over the next two to three years. We are determined to be successful in this effort. The Depot Foundation is indebted to Ann Glumac for her help in this process.

During these times of decreasing public revenues, the Foundation Board is concerned that vital financial support for the Depot may be further curtailed. While the Depot Foundation is dedicated to preserving a vibrant, thriving facility with engaging arts, cultural and historical programs, as yet it does not have the financial strength to solely ensure the Depot’s success. The earnings from our endowment fund are used to enhance the appearance and functionality of the building and aid our arts, culture and historical organizations in ways that promote attendance at Depot events. As detailed in previous editions of Expressions, we have awarded over $700,000 to these purposes since 2007. We invite each of you to consider means in which you can assist us in accomplishing our goals.

We will soon begin our annual round of grant considerations and will invite our Depot-related organizations to apply for funding to support their programs.

You, our members, and the recipients of the 2011 Arts and Culture Awards will be honored at the Circle of Friends Celebration on Thursday, October 27. We cordially invite you to attend the evening reception, the awards presentation (where eight richly deserving individuals will be recognized), and our Annual Meeting.