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Arts & Culture Alliance Announces Arts & Heritage Fund
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Arts & Culture Alliance Announces Arts & Heritage Fund
In making the announcement, Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett said, “I’m happy to announce the creation of the Arts & Heritage Fund… that will serve to raise private funds to stabilize and benefit Knox County’s arts and culture industry,” says Burchett. “It’s a perfect example of what this community is all about… and it will better serve the broad interests of the County and its economic development goals.”
City of Knoxville Mayor Daniel Brown said, “The City has been a long and steady supporter of arts and culture in Knoxville, and many arts organizations have animated our redevelopment investments by working and performing downtown. I congratulate the arts and heritage community on taking the big step of establishing the Fund and for the unity it represents. As the City continues its support, we encourage those of you who have given to specific arts and heritage organizations to continue to do so. The Fund is an additional effort for those who want a vibrant, lively city.”
The Cornerstone Foundation contributed $30,000 in start-up funds. Laurens Tullock, President of Cornerstone Foundation, said, “The arts are not just a nice thing to invest in… they are absolutely crucial if you care about the future economic development for the community. In a world economy, it’s the creative places that will succeed and thrive. If every corporation in this region invested 1% of their profits; if every foundation invested 1% of their annual giving; if every individual gave 1% of their annual income, this could be a very significant Fund year after year that would sustain, enliven, make healthier, and make more vibrant the arts community. That in turn would create jobs, create more economic development, and add to the quality of life. I urge you to support this Fund.”
Tim Williams represented 21st Mortgage Corporation, which made the first corporate gift in the amount of $25,000. Williams said, “The arts and heritage organizations ALL fulfill the mission of helping with the education of our children, and they make it easier for our community to recruit talent.”
The Knoxville Tourism and Sports Corporation (KTSC) announced a pledge in the amount of $10,000. Gloria Ray, President and CEO of KTSC, said “This community represents all parts of Knoxville; the arts and heritage are the spirit, fabric and culture of who we are.” Ray also announced that KTSC would soon commission Dr. Steve Morse of the UT Tourism Institute to conduct a study on the value of arts and heritage organizations.
For more information about the Fund or how you may make a donation, visit www.ahfund.org or call 865-523-7543.
About the Arts & Culture Alliance
Contact: Suzanne Cada
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