The board of directors, interim executive director, and staff at L/A Arts are working hard to address the challenges they are facing, and are dedicated to moving forward with their valuable arts programs. “We have been meeting regularly, roughly 40 hours this week alone, to get a clear picture of our finances, prepare a new business plan, and to begin immediate measures to stabilize,” says board chair Judy Vardamis.
The board takes responsibility for the financial situation, and has identified three areas for its downturn: a very challenging economic climate which reduced its funding, a recent initiative to extend L/A Arts mission in a new and dynamic way through larger public programs which fell short, and a lack of financial controls. The combination of these factors has caused the financial trouble the organization faces.
Currently, L/A Arts is maintaining several key programs. Artwalk will continue with its 25 gallery exhibits, free arts performances, and creative foods. It is hosting three performances in its downstage space — two from local playwright Linda Britt as well as a theater piece by local high school students. “We are cutting costs,” says Vardamis, “while making the absolute best out of the programs we have.”
The organization is asking for donations from the community and sponsors to help through this phase of strategic planning, continuation of existing programs, and to assist in paying down its debts. “We are asking all of our funders from the five dollar donor to the well resourced foundation to help us,” Vardamis says. “This will take time, but we are committed to satisfying all of our responsibilities. We know we can rely on the value this organization has had on the community, with the wonderful cultural, educational, and civic benefits our programs have been delivering for 40 years.” Each member of the board of directors has pledged their own individual financial contribution to begin what they are calling their “Strategic Action Fund”.
L/A Arts also welcomes Marc Roy to the board, a CPA from Austin Associates, to assist in the finances. He has already shown his ability to define the fiscal issues in concrete terms and ensure that L/A Arts is using best practices. “These are undeniably difficult numbers, but the ship can be righted with a sound business model, strong internal controls, and the faith and support of the community, ” Mr. Roy says.
As part of the plan to move forward, the board has appointed a new interim executive
director, Joshua Vink, who was formerly the director of arts in education. He and the board have been developing a new business plan, which will clarify the direction and goals of the organization for its partners and supporters. “We are working to refocus our mission towards Arts in Education programs and arts advocacy,” Mr. Vink says. As for his new role, he states “I am grateful for the kind words, the phone calls of support, and the input from community leaders and friends of the organization who want to help.” Mr. Vink brings successful leadership and experience in the non-profit arts sector and as an educator. In his role as director of education, this past school year L/A Arts served 75% of the students in the Lewiston school district with performances, residencies and/or workshops in multiple arts disciplines.
At the beginning of its 40th year, L/A Arts is working diligently to solve its challenges and plan for the future. It is committed to rebuilding the trust of the community and fostering the wealth of artistry right here in Lewiston and Auburn for another 40 years.
For more information on L/A Arts, including how to donate to their “Strategic Action Fund”, go to www.laarts.org or call Board Chair Judy Vardamis at 207-782-7228.