Written by Anne Shannon Esbenshade
Imagine. Sally Mittelstadt pauses and looks out at the group of Garden Spot Village residents gathered in front of her. “Just imagine what’ s possible,” she continues. It’s a thought Sally has pondered dozens of times over the last few months as she’s shared the vision for the future Center for Arts and Culture with her friends and neighbors. “Imagine Gretna Theatre putting on a production right here in New Holland…or the symphony performing. Maybe a lecture series?” Sally has imagined it all.
Sally is one of about a dozen residents who are volunteering to support Time to Shine: The Campaign for the Center for Arts & Culture at Garden Spot Village. The capital campaign is the first in Garden Spot’s history, relying entirely on donations from foundations, businesses and individuals. Volunteer support is crucial. Sally leads the campaign’s Spark Committee. The name is self-explanatory. The committee’s job is to spark enthusiasm and raise funds for the roughly 600-seat theater that’s being planned alongside the Sycamore Springs expansion.
Sally is passionate about the project. The former school administrator and development officer wants to help others understand why she believes the Center will be a vital addition to the community. She and the other members of her team take turns meeting with small groups of residents in what are being called “Spark Gatherings.” During the gatherings, the volunteer presenters share the highlights of the $15 million dollar project—from artists’ renderings of the theater’s collapsible seats and LED backdrop to pictures of the illuminated sculpture garden outside. Each adds their own perspective.
Alan Dinning attended a Spark Gathering that Sally led. He was so moved by the project that he signed up to be a volunteer presenter. “When I first heard about the Center for Arts and Culture, I wondered about the value it would bring to our community,”
Alan shares. “So, I did some research.” Alan found the center could have financial, health and community benefits. He sees the potential economic boost to the region with new jobs and revenue coming to New Holland. When it comes to improving health, Alan points to what will happen inside the building.
Alan believes in the transformational power of the arts. Whether attending a theater performance or a concert, he says “We all know what art does; it is a gift to our soul.” Alan envisions The Center for Arts & Culture will be a hub, bringing people together to celebrate and learn. He often wraps up his presentations with a nod to the future. He knows the space will be incredibly meaningful for generations to come, but adds it will take everyone working together, sharing their time, talent and treasure to make it happen.
It reminds me of the story of the tamarisk tree in the Bible,” says Alan. “Although we may never sit under the shade of the tree, we can still help to plant it.” Sally agrees. That’s why she and her Spark Committee are hoping to ignite as much support for the Center for Arts & Culture as they can. Sally is ready to stop imagining what’s possible. She’s ready to get a front row seat as the curtain finally goes up.
Ready to give generously? Visit trellisworksfoundation.org