Greater Reston Arts Center Launches ‘Special Appeal’ for Funds

Greater Reston Arts Center is the latest local entity to be hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

With one of its flagship events canceled this year, the organization has launched a special fundraising appeal for this month. The Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival, which was initially rescheduled to September, was canceled late last month due to the difficulty of implementing social distancing guidelines at the popular event.

“The festival historically provides more than one-third of our annual net income. And, consequently, the financial I impact of the cancellation is severe fort he organization,” wrote Jaynelle Hazard, GRACE’s executive director and curator in a written appeal sent earlier this morning. A board member has offered to match the first $5,000 raised.

Here’s more from Hazard on the plea:

We understand that charitable donations may not be an option for many in this moment, and that some have already given to Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) – thank you. If you are, in any way, able to help meet this inspirational year-end challenge, we would be grateful. Donations will contribute toward essential funds necessary in powering our ability to continue offering opportunities that explore and engage with contemporary art and artists. Whether you are able to donate $5, $50, $500, or more, your tax-deductible gift will make a substantial impact. Help us meet, if not exceed, Lezley’s gracious challenge. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration and for supporting GRACE.

GRACE is projecting a loss of about $100,000 of its $500,000 budget, GRACE’s gallery and communication manager, Sofia Blom, told Reston Now. Donations are being accepted online.

Photo by Don Renner