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When
the music changes, so does the dance. ~ African
Proverb
Ashkenaz has believed for 35 years that what we’re committed to is seeking out connection with and understanding for each other - another way of saying peace - by sharing the music and dance of many cultures. In good and bad times, you have come to Ashkenaz to dance to your favorite band, to listen to some unusual kind of music you haven’t heard before, or to take a movement class. Especially during tight economic times, we all seek out that connection and understanding, and base our hope on it. We invite your support now, in preserving Ashkenaz as a community resource of hope and connection through music and dance. It is you, our special and vibrant community, who have done this since Ashkenaz became a nonprofit organization in 1997 - you have chosen to believe in continuing the legacy of our founder David Nadel, in growing and strengthening Ashkenaz for all of us. You have chosen to support an experience of celebration and oneness that transcends current headlines. When David Nadel opened the doors in 1973, many told him this “experiment” wouldn’t last three months… We are here today, having celebrated our 35th anniversary this past March, to thank you and all our community members for helping this one-of-a-kind place stay alive. In 2008, you may have:
At our 35th anniversary event, we heard stories from those who were with David Nadel on that first night back in 1973 - how he had converted an old warehouse into a temple of celebration; a place where people of all backgrounds and cultures come together under one roof to share in a common humanity through music and dance. It was a simple idea, yet one that continues to grow and expand to this day. At Ashkenaz the philosophy has always been the same: World music and dance has the power to transcend differences, heal wounds, and bring people of all cultures together in peace and harmony. Even amidst economic troubles, we embrace this philosophy with renewed hope, and invite you to join us in supporting plans for our long-term future. While continuing our vibrant music and dance programs, we are also embarking on a new and adventurous project of “going greener.” Because of our community’s hope in Ashkenaz, now that we own our own home, we are planning for a project that will unfold over the next few years, to provide our community a facility that will be sustainable for many more years to come. Some green renovations being considered include replacing our roof with a cooler, white foam roof; converting to solar energy; adding a more efficient and ecologically responsible ventilation system to keep us cooler in summer and warmer in winter; enhancing the eco-efficiency of our café; seismically upgrading our structure; and expanding our second floor. In addition, we are happy to report the return of an extended “Sunny Sundays” series for kids and families. Due to its popularity, we plan to increase the series from 2 months to 6 months in 2009. In conjunction, we will also be releasing “Live at Ashkenaz, Vol. II: Sunny Sundays,” a compilation of some of the best of the series recorded at Ashkenaz! Our kids’ programming is vital to our mission. We are proud of our legacy of offering a wide variety of shows for children and their families. Your gift will help provide all this. As a nonprofit, Ashkenaz is able to raise funds so that we can keep our ticket prices low and accessible to the community. We manage our $600,000 budget so carefully that we have kept expenses nearly steady for the past seven years. Fundraising brings in 25% of that budget. Your gift is an important part of continuing our vision of one world celebrating together under one roof - and that is our hope. Thank you for your generosity. Together we will bring Ashkenaz into the future.
Larry
Dekker
Donate to Ashkenaz Donations by credit card may be made via the website by:
Matching Gifts Many companies will match gifts from employees, employee’s partners, and retirees. A match will increase your gift and further spread the word about Ashkenaz. Please ask your employer whether your company has a matching gifts program. All gifts are acknowledged with a thank-you letter outlining your tax-deductible contribution. Donate Your Car to Ashkenaz Eliminate the hassle of selling your own used car by donating it to Ashkenaz. You have the satisfaction of making a contribution to Ashkenaz while receiving a tax deduction and saving yourself time and trouble. Just call toll-free (866) 273-5898 to learn more about the program and to donate your car, motorcycle, recreational vehicle or boat. |
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