Sharing the Spotlight: Nonprofits for American Theaters
American Theaters that offer live performances have been facing difficult times recently.
Despite the decline in the pandemic, several local theaters and independent art groups are still struggling to secure funding. Unfortunately, this has resulted in a drop in attendance, with numbers still below pre-pandemic levels.
Consequently, many theaters nationwide have had to cancel festivals, reducing performances and staff. This pandemic has only worsened already struggling theater groups. Although some theaters have managed to raise funds, many others still struggle to keep their shows running. While some are advocating for government intervention, donor support is crucial.
Consider supporting one of these organizations to help the arts.
Control Group Productions
Control Group Productions (CGP) is a Denver-based nonprofit organization dedicated to experimental and interdisciplinary performance and art. They focus on creating immersive experiences and exploring the boundaries of traditional performance forms.
CGP was founded by Patrick Mueller and Bailey Harper in 2008. Since then, it has become known for its innovative approach to live performance, combining dance, theater, music, and visual arts elements. The group often collaborates with artists from various disciplines to produce unique and thought-provoking works.
One of the key aspects of Control Group Productions is its site-specific performance. Instead of traditional theater spaces, CGP stages its productions in non-traditional venues like parks, abandoned buildings, warehouses, or other public areas. This approach adds an extra layer of engagement for the audience and challenges artists to work with the specific characteristics of each location.
The themes explored in CGP's performances often revolve around contemporary social issues, personal introspection, and the relationship between individuals and their environment. They use movement, storytelling, multimedia, and technology to create immersive experiences that stimulate the senses and provoke deep reflections.
Control Group Productions has also been involved in community outreach and education initiatives. They offer workshops, classes, and other educational programs to promote the arts and creativity within the local community.
Center Theater Group
Center Theatre Group (CTG) is a prominent non-profit theater organization in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1967, it has become one of the most influential and respected theater companies in the United States. CTG's mission is to enrich, entertain, and transform the cultural landscape of Los Angeles through the power of live theater.
Here are some key points about Center Theatre Group:
- Venues: CTG operates three significant venues in the Los Angeles area: the Ahmanson Theatre, the Mark Taper Forum, and the Kirk Douglas Theatre. These theaters host various productions, from classic plays and musicals to new and experimental works.
- Diverse Programming: Center Theatre Group offers a varied and eclectic mix of productions, representing a variety of genres, styles, and cultural perspectives. They present classic and contemporary plays, world premieres, and shows from renowned playwrights and emerging artists.
- Educational Programs: CTG is committed to theater education and community engagement. They offer educational programs that aim to introduce young people to the theater, inspire creativity, and provide opportunities for students to participate in the performing arts.
- New Play Development: The organization is dedicated to supporting new works and fostering the development of emerging playwrights. Center Theatre Group has developed numerous world premiere productions over the years.
- Collaborations: CTG collaborates with various local and national theater companies, artists, and institutions to bring diverse voices and perspectives to the stage.
- Awards and Recognition: Center Theatre Group has received numerous awards and accolades for its contributions to the arts and the cultural life of Los Angeles. They have been recognized for their artistic excellence, innovative productions, and commitment to community engagement.
Broadway Advocacy Coalition
The Broadway Advocacy Coalition (BAC) is a non-profit organization established in 2016. Its primary goal is to bring about social change by merging arts, advocacy, and activism. BAC is based in New York City and is well-known in the Broadway community.
This coalition was formed due to lacking diversity and representation in the theater industry and the broader performing arts community. It strives to address racial justice, social justice, and inclusion within the theater world.
BAC works with artists, activists, and legal experts to support initiatives that promote racial equity and social justice on and off the stage. The organization utilizes its platform to raise awareness of important causes, create spaces for dialogue, and engage in community organizing efforts.
One of BAC's most notable initiatives is the "Town Halls" they organize. These gatherings provide open discussions and collective problem-solving on various social issues such as racial discrimination, inequality, and systemic injustices.
The coalition also provides resources, training, and support for artists and creative professionals, empowering them to use their art as a tool for advocacy and positive change. By leveraging the power of storytelling and performance, BAC seeks to address pressing social issues and create a more inclusive and equitable future for the performing arts community.
Here are the campaigns BAC is responsible for:
- Creating social change through the intersection of arts, advocacy, and activism.
- Addressing racial justice, social justice, and inclusion issues within the theater industry and the performing arts community.
- Collaborating with artists, activists, and legal experts to support initiatives that advance racial equity and social justice.
- Organizing "Town Halls" to provide spaces for open discussions and collective problem-solving on various social issues.
- Engaging in community organizing efforts to promote positive change.
- Providing resources, training, and support for artists and creative professionals to use their art as a tool for advocacy and social impact.
Black Ensemble Theater
The Black Ensemble Theater promotes diversity and inclusion in the performing arts. Here are some essential facts about this organization:
- Mission: BET aims to utilize theater arts to eradicate racism and its adverse effects. They strive to provide positive, high-quality, and transformative theatrical experiences that reflect African Americans' rich history, heritage, and contributions to society.
- Productions: BET produces a variety of original and classic theatrical works, including musicals, dramas, comedies, and biographical productions that highlight influential African-American figures.
- Founder and Leadership: Jackie Taylor, the founder of BET, has been instrumental in the theater's success. Her artistic vision and commitment to telling diverse stories have helped shape the company's identity.
- Community Engagement: BET actively engages with the local community, particularly youth and aspiring artists, through educational and outreach programs. They offer workshops, classes, and opportunities for young people to explore the performing arts and develop their talents.
- Awards and Recognition: BET has received numerous awards and honors for its contributions to African-American theater and its impact on the Chicago arts scene.
- New Works: BET is a platform for developing and premiering new works by African-American playwrights and composers, contributing to the growth and diversification of American theater.
- Diversity and Inclusion: BET is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the performing arts.
Northern Stage
Northern Stage is a non-profit regional theater company based in White River Junction, Vermont. It was founded in 1997 to produce high-quality professional theater and foster a local community’s love for the performing arts.
Here are some key points about Northern Stage:
- Work: Northern Stage produces a diverse range of theatrical productions, including classic plays, contemporary pieces, musicals, and world premieres. They aim to present compelling stories that entertain, inspire, and provoke thought.
- Community: The theater is deeply committed to community engagement and educational outreach. They offer educational programs, workshops, and opportunities for students and community members to get involved in the performing arts.
- New Works Development: Northern Stage has been actively developing new works, collaborating with playwrights and composers to bring fresh and original stories to the stage.
- Venue: The main stage of Northern Stage is located at the Barrette Center for the Arts in White River Junction, Vermont. The center houses a 240-seat theater and other performance spaces.
- Collaborations: Northern Stage often collaborates with other arts organizations, educational institutions, and local community groups to enrich the region's cultural life.
- Artistic Leadership: Northern Stage has had various artistic directors and leadership teams, each contributing to the theater's creative vision and programming.
- Recognition: Northern Stage has received critical acclaim and awards for its productions and contributions to the arts in Vermont and the surrounding areas.
Entertainment Community Fund
The Entertainment Community Fund (ECF) is a human services organization that caters to the specific needs of individuals working in performing arts and entertainment across the nation.
Established in 1882 as the Actors Fund of America, it underwent a name change in 2020 to reflect its extended scope and objective. Throughout the years, the ECF has assisted countless individuals in the entertainment industry and remains a crucial support system for those working in the arts.
The ECF provides a wide range of services, including:
- Emergency financial assistance: The ECF provides financial aid to people struggling to pay for necessities, such as rent, food, and medical care.
- Affordable housing: The ECF helps people find and maintain affordable housing. It also provides supportive services, such as case management and counseling, to help people stay housed.
- Health care and insurance counseling: The ECF provides health care and insurance counseling to people in the entertainment industry. It also helps people access affordable health care.
- Career development and management: The ECF provides career development and management services to people in the entertainment industry. These services can help people find jobs, develop their skills, and manage their careers.
- Senior care: The ECF provides senior care services to people in the entertainment industry. These services can help people find and maintain quality care and connect with other seniors in the industry.
- And more: The ECF also provides various other services, such as counseling, legal assistance, and substance abuse treatment.
Pablo Center
the Pablo Center at the Confluence is a non-profit arts center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA. The center promotes and fosters the region's arts, culture, and creativity by providing a venue for various artistic and cultural events.
Here are some key points about the Pablo Center:
- Origin: The Pablo Center was a collaborative effort between the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, the Eau Claire Regional Arts Council, and other community partners. It was established to meet the growing demand for a modern and versatile arts space in the Chippewa Valley region.
- Facilities: The Pablo Center features state-of-the-art facilities, including a 1,200-seat theatre, a flexible 400-seat theatre, galleries, rehearsal spaces, classrooms, and event spaces. These spaces accommodate various performances, events, and artistic activities.
- Programming: The center hosts a diverse array of performances and events, including theater productions, musical concerts, dance performances, visual arts exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and community gatherings. The programming aims to showcase local, regional, and national talent.
- Community Engagement: The Pablo Center actively engages with the local community by offering educational and outreach programs, workshops, and opportunities for artists and performers to interact with audiences and share their work.
- Non-Profit Status: As a non-profit organization, the Pablo Center relies on community support, sponsorships, grants, and donations to sustain its operations and fulfill its mission of enriching the cultural life of the Chippewa Valley region.
- Impact: Since opening in 2018, the Pablo Center has become a vibrant cultural hub, attracting residents and visitors to experience and participate in the arts.
IndieSpace
IndieSpace is a non-profit organization promoting independent theater-making in New York City. It offers transparent, responsive, and equitable funding, real estate programs, professional development opportunities, and advocacy for individual artists, theater companies, and indie venues.
IndieSpace was established in 2015 by independent theater artists concerned about the lack of resources and support available for independent theater in New York City. The organization strives to strengthen the indie theater community by challenging ongoing displacement, promoting democratic power, advocating for social and financial equity, and speaking up for the authentic indie voice.
IndieSpace offers a variety of programs and services to support independent theater-makers, including:
- Funding: IndieSpace provides grants to individual artists, theater companies, and indie venues. These grants can be used for various purposes, such as production costs, artist fees, and marketing.
- Real estate programs: IndieSpace helps independent theater makers find affordable rehearsal and performance space. It also advocates for policies that will protect the spaces that independent theater-makers rely on.
- Professional development: IndieSpace offers workshops, training, and other professional development opportunities to independent theater-makers. These opportunities help artists develop their skills and knowledge and build relationships with other theater-makers.
- Advocacy: IndieSpace advocates for policies that support independent theater-making. It works with government officials, community organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that independent theater has a seat at the table.
Related resources
Unlocking Philanthropy: A Ready-to-Use Corporate Giving Policy for Modern Businesses
Sample Corporate Giving Policy You Can Use Today
In today’s socially conscious environment, more companies than ever are recognizing the value of corporate philanthropy. Not only can a robust giving policy boost a brand’s image and reputation, but it can also play a pivotal role in community development and global betterment. If your company is considering the establishment of a formal corporate giving policy or refining its existing strategy, this sample policy might be the perfect starting point for you.
Pillars of a Strong Corporate Giving Policy
Corporate giving programs range from employer donation matching programs to full blown corporate social responsibility programs with grantmaking and volunteerism. Many companies find somewhere in the middle that aligns with their size, budget, geographic presence and most importantly company values and commitment to diversity and inclusion. But what truly makes a corporate giving policy stand out? Let’s delve into the key features, from donation matching to the strategic use of platforms like Groundswell.
1. Donation Matching: Doubling the Impact
One of the most effective tools in a giving policy is donation matching. This is where companies match employee donations to eligible non-profits, effectively doubling the contribution. Such programs not only amplify the impact but also motivate employees to participate, knowing their chosen cause will receive twice the support.
2. Charitable Stipends: Encouraging Employee Choice
Charitable stipends are allowances given to employees to donate to a non-profit of their choice. This not only encourages a culture of giving but also empowers employees to support causes they’re passionate about. The stipends can be a fixed amount annually or can vary based on the employee’s role or tenure.
3. Dollars for Doers: Volunteering Translated to Contributions
“Dollars for Doers” programs convert volunteer hours into monetary donations. When employees volunteer their time for a cause, the company makes a donation equivalent to the hours spent. This fosters a culture of hands-on involvement and ensures that both time and money are being donated to valuable initiatives.
4. Corporate Grants: Sowing Seeds for Bigger Change
Beyond individual employee contributions, companies can set aside a dedicated fund for corporate grants. These grants can be given to non-profits, research initiatives, or community projects that align with the company’s CSR objectives. Such grants can lead to substantial, long-term changes and foster strong partnerships with community leaders and organizations.
Why Choose Groundswell for Your Giving Initiatives?
Incorporating these elements into a giving policy requires streamlined management, transparency, and ease of execution. This is where platforms like Groundswell come into the picture.
Groundswell offers an efficient and affordable solution for companies aiming to elevate their philanthropic endeavors. Here’s why it’s the ideal choice:
- User-Friendly Interface: Groundswell’s platform is designed for both companies and employees, ensuring smooth navigation and straightforward donation processes.
- Versatility: Whether it’s donation matching, handling charitable stipends, or managing corporate grants, Groundswell offers solutions tailored to each company’s unique needs.
- Cost-Effective: Groundswell provides a comprehensive suite of tools at competitive prices, ensuring that more of your money goes towards the cause rather than platform fees.
- Transparency: Track donations, monitor employee involvement, and generate detailed reports to measure the impact—all in one place.
Conclusion
An effective corporate giving policy is a blend of structure, employee engagement, and impactful contributions. By incorporating elements like donation matching, charitable stipends, “Dollars for Doers,” and corporate grants, businesses can create a ripple effect of positive change. And with platforms like Groundswell, executing these initiatives becomes not just feasible but also highly efficient and cost-effective.
5 Tips to Boost Engagement & Impact on Giving Tuesday
Leverage GivingTuesday to boost generosity
Every November, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving is known as GivingTuesday, which often serves as the unofficial start of end-of-year giving campaigns. This comes on the heels of holiday shopping deals on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. It is a worldwide phenomenon, inspiring millions to lean into the end-of-year holiday spirit with generosity and compassion. For many charities, GivingTuesday has become their biggest day for donations – and can help resource their ability to have an even greater impact in the year ahead.
For companies, GivingTuesday and the end-of-year giving season offers an opportunity to double down on their commitment to social responsibility, strengthen relationships with employees, and boost their impact in the community and broader world.
At Groundswell, we partner with companies all across the country to design and launch GivingTuesday campaigns – leveraging our easy-to-use platform that makes it easy for employees to participate and send donations to the causes and charities that they care most about. Below are some best practices to boost engagement and inspire generosity during the giving season.
1. Make Giving Easy:
A lot of giving platforms out there make it incredibly hard to donate. Some don’t have all 1.5 million IRS-approved charities listed. Others require employees to navigate through a web of intranet or sharepoint sites to find the giving program landing page. And others require that HR is notified of any donations an employee wants to make. At Groundswell – we are committed to removing all of the friction, and ensuring that employees can find charities easily, through a platform that is accessible from the palm of their hand, so they can give whenever they want to.
2. Launch a GivingTuesday Match Campaign:
Through Groundswell you can customize and launch a special GivingTuesday match campaign in a matter of minutes. Simply pick the nonprofits to include in the special campaign, select the start and end-date for the campaign, and then determine the match – 2x, 3x – along with any overall budget limits, then you’re done!
3. Boost engagement by involving ERGs:
Share nonprofit recommendations from Employee Resource Groups to provide inspiration around causes and nonprofits that matter to your employees. You can feature these nonprofits on dedicated ERG Corporate Spotlights and Campaigns that will be visible to all employees on their Groundswell dashboard.
4. Surprise (and Delight) Employees With A Gift to Give:
Consider sending a surprise “gift to give” to reward those already participating in your giving program (and to incentivize others to enroll). These gifts might be used to further maximize impact through the existing campaign, or to donate to other nonprofits your employees care about. Groundswell’s custom gift feature allows companies to easily schedule and send gifts with little to no administrative burden.
5. Level up with Volunteer Matching:
Groundswell’s Volunteer Matching program – sometimes known as Dollars for Doers – recognizes that some employees may not have funds to contribute, but have time – and rewards them in the same way. It’s an inclusive approach that invites everyone to participate in GivingTuesday, even those who may not be able to donate their own funds.
12 Employee Benefits Survey Questions Modern Companies Should Ask
In today's business environment, having the right and highest performing talent is more critical than ever. With benefits packages playing a vital role in these decisions, how can companies truly gauge their effectiveness? By initiating regular employee benefits surveys.
Scroll down for a free survey template below.
Let's dive in to the importance of asking the following questions.
Is our workforce satisfied with the current employee benefits package?
Gaining insights from "how satisfied are you with our company’s benefits package?" can offer companies a quick pulse on the effectiveness of their benefits. A dip in satisfaction might signal a need for re-evaluation, especially if you're looking to maximize your budget.
How comprehensive are the employee benefits we offer?
Do employees feel that the organization covers a wide range of their needs? Asking, "do you feel our benefits package is comprehensive in its offering?" can shed light on any potential gaps in coverage.
Are we showing true commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion through our benefits?
Are the company's efforts in promoting DE&I resonating? This can be gauged by asking if the benefits genuinely support diversity and inclusion. If they aren't, here's an opportunity to collect ideas directly from your employees.
Read more about how to make sure your giving program is equitable and inclusive.
Do our benefits reflect our company culture and values?
The question, "do you feel our benefits package supports our cultural values?" will highlight any potential discrepancies in practicing what you're preaching.
Did you know? Two-thirds of employees say it’s important for a company to align to their values.
Are we catering to the needs of a remote or multi-location workforce?
With remote work on the rise, is the company adapting its benefits accordingly? It's essential to find out if employees feel supported, regardless of their work setting.
Would employees recommend the company based on our benefits?
This is an easy one to skip, but it's a great question to ask. See how influential your benefits package is for employee referrals. Determining if employees would advocate for the company based on its benefits can be a key metric for recruitment.
How do specific benefit categories fare?
By querying satisfaction levels across various benefits – physical health, social impact, mental health, financial health, and fringe benefits – can companies discern which areas are thriving and which need enhancement?
What additional benefits do employees desire?
Is there a particular benefit that could make a difference in employee satisfaction and retention? Discovering this can be as straightforward as asking, "if you could choose one benefit not currently offered, what would it be?"
If your workforce desires a more meaningful benefit, see why decentralizing your corporate philanthropy strategy can achieve greater impact at scale.
How often should I send an employee survey about our benefits?
While every business has their own set of unique needs, conducing a quarterly employee survey at minimum can help you get a pulse check.
There will be some natural and unplanned peaks in valleys throughout the year that can drastically affect employee morale and company culture. By proactively seeking feedback through surveys, companies can foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring they remain at the forefront of employee satisfaction.
What are some affordable benefit options we can provide employees?
Corporate matching or giving programs can be a low-cost addition to your benefit offering that supports your employees’ unique passions and perspectives through charitable giving and boosts your company’s commitment to social impact. Groundswell offers a comprehensive solution with a simple implementation and nearly zero administration burden.
- How satisfied are you with our company’s benefits package?
- Do you feel our benefits package is comprehensive in its offering?
- Do you feel our benefits package supports our cultural values?
- Do you feel our benefits package supports our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion?
- Do you feel our benefits package supports our remote or multi-location workforce?
- How likely are you to recommend applying based on our benefits package?
- How satisfied are you with our physical health benefits (i.e. health care, sick leave, etc)?
- How satisfied are you with our social impact benefits (i.e. corporate matching, volunteering, etc)?
- How satisfied are you with our mental health benefits (i.e. vacation time, EAP, etc)?
- How satisfied are you with our financial health benefits? (i.e. retirement, student loan assistance, etc)
- How satisfied are you with our fringe benefits and perks? (i.e. fitness subsidies, stipends, etc)
- If you could choose one benefit not currently offered, what would it be?