The Arts Fund for Schenectady

In his estate, paul Hooker directed a bequest of $322,000 to be used to promote the arts. His gift enabled The Schenectady Foundation to establish The Arts Fund for Schenectady, a dedicated source of funding for community-accessible art programs.

This summer, an Arts fund grant to the Music Haven Concert Series will help bring diverse musical talent to the heart of the city, creating oppurtunites for residents and visiotrs to gather, connect, and enjoy high-quality live entertainment in a welcoming public space.

"Arts Programs are not an extra; they are part of the fabric of a healthy, connected community," said Mona Golub, Music Haven Artistic Director. "Music creates belonging, sparks creativity, bridges differences, and gives people of all ages a shared place to gather and be inspired." 

Arts Fund grants reflect a commitment to community, culture, and accessibility. In june, an arts fund grant helped Kids Arts Fest provide a day of hand-on arts education, activites and performances for residents of all ages.

"I believe what transforms our city and our county into a community is our common love for the arts," said Betsy Sandberg, Kids Arts Fest. "Thanks to the support from the Arts Fund, whether at Music Haven, Kids Arts Fest, Art in Bloom or Jazz on Jay, free programming tells people: All are welcome here." 

The Arts Fund ensures that there is funding ffor quality arts oppurtunites, such as the appearence of Brazilian violinist Nathan Amaral at Mont Pleasant Middle School in March. Capital Region Classical's Arts Fund grant brought Amaral to Schenectady to engage with students, followed by afree evening concert.

"Bringing world-class musicians into the heart of a neighborhood uplifts all who experience them," said Derek Delaney, Artistic Director of Capital Region Classical. "To witness students and audience members being inspired by musican's artistry illuminates the critical role the arts play in our community."

Please consider making a gift to our Arts Fund.