ACPA's 25 For 25 Campaign Aims To Raise $25,000 On 25th Bday

Just like automakers, banks and just about every business out there, the Atlanta Coalition of Performing Arts (ACPA) faces the challenges of today's economic environment. ACPA is the nonprofit alliance of greater Atlanta's performing arts organizations and professionals. Our mission is dedicated to programs and services that provide a nurturing environment for the growth of the performing arts, and advance the role they play within the fabric of our society.

For 25 years, ACPA has played a key role in the arts & entertainment in the Southeast. Recently, it has become apparent that without making some changes to reduce our expenses and to focus the scope of our service we would be in jeopardy of not being able to continue. The result of extensive research, the board of directors has made some very difficult decisions in an effort to ensure the vitality of this invaluable asset. Included in the research and analysis were a survey conducted by our Member Services Council as well as expert consultation to review finances and cost structures made possible through the generous Toolbox Grant provided by the Metropolitan Atlanta Arts Fund.

The Board of Directors, in an effort to lower operating costs has decided to restructure staff by hiring an Executive Administrator and dissolving the position of Executive Director (position to be dissolved no later than May 1). Board volunteers will operate the organization while conducting a search for the Executive Administrator (with a projected hire date of June 1, 2009). This time period was carefully selected as to not disrupt operations.

"We extend our deepest gratitude to longtime Executive Director Kim Patrick Bitz who worked tirelessly at the helm of the organization for the last 13 years," said Curtis King, President of the ACPA Board and Community Relations Director of Kenny Leon's True Colors Theatre Company. "Under Bitz' leadership, ACPA developed numerous programs in service to Atlanta's performing arts community, including programs that make affordable healthcare available to local artists and AtlanTIX, the discount ticket service that help make arts and entertainment accessible to everyone. Future generations of arts professionals and arts lovers will benefit from his devotion."

Reducing expenses is just one part of the solution. ACPA is pleased to announce the formation of the 25 for 25 Campaign, a fundraiser where family, friends, and associates are invited to make contributions to the ACPA in honor of its 25th Anniversary and its service to the arts community. We plan to raise $25,000 by April 30, 2009. These funds will support operations as we continue ongoing services and make plans for the future. We understand not everyone can give, but if you can, we eagerly await your support.

Bullet Points
· Atlanta Coalition of Performing Arts (ACPA) is restructuring the organization to ensure long-term sustainability and conducting a fundraising effort entitled the, 25 for 25 Campaign in honor of the 25th Anniversary of the organization.

· ACPA was already operating on slim financial margins and resources before the economic downturn which now more than ever challenges us to maintain our cash flow and take actions that will sustain the organization. Including restructuring the staff.

· ACPA respects the enormous contributions of outgoing Executive Director Kim Patrick Bitz. He will leave his indelible impression upon the organization and the greater Atlanta Arts Community. Under his leadership, the ACPA developed programs to benefit generations of future arts professionals and arts lovers.

· The ACPA board of directors has responded to a strong mandate from our membership and stakeholders to make sure that this vital and important organization survives. We received a Toolbox Award from the Metropolitan Atlanta Arts Fund to review finances and cost structures. This provided crucial information in our decision making process. The organization plans to stay very mission focused.

To make a tax-deductible contribution to the 25 for 25 Campaign
To contribute online: http://atlantix.tix.com/donation.asp?OrganizationNumber=10
To contribute by phone, or for more info, please call 404-588-9890, ext 106
To contribute in person go to one of our AtlanTIX Booths: Underground Atlanta Visitors Center & Lenox Square Guest Services Tues-Sat: 11:00am to 6:00pm or Sunday: Noon to 4:00pm
To contribute by mail, make your check payable to ACPA and send to this address:
25 for 25 Campaign
Atlanta Coalition of Performing Arts
65 Upper Alabama Street SW
Atlanta, GA 30303

For More Information About
For performing arts audiences, ACPA provides show listings and information on discount ticket deals at http://www.atlantaperforms.com.

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