Community Corner
WBTT thanks its supporters with appreciation event
Area arts organization expresses appreciation for community support, provides updates on capital campaign and upcoming programs
On April 9, supporters of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe came together for the WBTT Donor Appreciation Party, to celebrate a successful year and hear heartfelt "thank yous" from organizational leadership for their passion and generosity. Guests enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and songs performed by WBTT founder/artistic director Nate Jacobs and popular artists Michael Mendez, Leon Pitts II, and Ariel Blue.
Board chair Marian Moss and executive director Julie Leach provided an update on WBTT projects and programs, then Heart & Soul capital campaign co-chair Doris Johnson reported that the $6 million campaign goal was just $500,000 away from being reached. The capital campaign has provided the funds to renovate the Binz Building on WBTT’s Orange Avenue campus – this building now houses the administrative staff and serves as the headquarters for the organization’s education and outreach programs. Renovations to the theater building will begin next summer.
At the event, two surprise gifts totaling $100,000 were made during the event to help WBTT reach its campaign goal: David Kotok and Christine Schlesinger, and Steve and Terry Clark, each added another $50,000 to their previous campaign commitments. This $100,000 of additional commitments will be used as a capping match for the campaign, encouraging others to close the gap of $400,000.
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“We are just so amazed at the generosity and excitement of our donors that have made this campaign continue to be successful,” said Leach. “We can’t wait for our renovation projects to be completed so that the community can enjoy and benefit from our exciting performance and educational facilities.”
More than 150 supporters were in attendance. The event was sponsored by Ron and Rita Greenbaum.
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PHOTO ID: (From l-r) WBTT executive director Julie Leach, event sponsors Rita and Ron Greenbaum, board chair Marian Moss, and founder/artistic director Nate Jacobs
About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe:
The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe of Florida, Inc. is the only professional black theater company on Florida’s West Coast. The mission is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates the African-American experience, to attract diverse audiences, to support and develop African-American artists, and to build the self-esteem of African-American youth. For more information on WBTT, visit the website at westcoastblacktheatre.org or call (941) 366-1505.
