Where we are. Where we're going.

Dear Friend of the Cultural Alliance,

In the past five months, as the new President of the Cultural Alliance, I have deeply immersed myself in Greater Philadelphia’s arts and culture scene.

Where we are.

I’ve learned what you already know – that we have some of the best museums, performing arts, and cultural organizations in the world.  You also know how challenged our arts and culture nonprofits are.  Declining support from individuals, corporations and government, shifting audience preferences, and the tragic loss of arts education in schools threaten the stability and sustainability of so many of the organizations that we love and that do so much for their communities.

That’s why Greater Philadelphia needs the Cultural Alliance.  And that’s why I’m asking for your support today.

We are the wind under the wings of arts and culture, from community art centers that change kids’ lives to major attractions that anchor Philadelphia’s tourism. Our research is the best in the nation – I know, because I eagerly read and used those reports for years when I worked in Detroit. We provide information, data, and perspective that help nonprofits to make smart choices, and informs policymakers and funders. Our workshops and seminars keep nonprofit staff, boards, and volunteers at the top of their game. Our Job Bank is widely used, connecting qualified candidates with the organizations that need their talent. The Phillyfunguide and Funsavers connect audiences to over 33,000 exhibitions, concerts, programs and events each year. 

The Cultural Alliance is the most effective and ardent advocate of arts and culture in our region—and a role model for cities around the country. Your support enables the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance to continue this important work. It supports the entire arts and culture sector and is an investment in the future. Won’t you help us? 

Where we’re going.

In the coming year, I want to take the work of the Cultural Alliance to the next level. We will make sure all of our programs and services are aligned to help cultural organizations to meet their current challenges and to build a vibrant, sustainable future. Here’s my vision for the Cultural Alliance and Philadelphia’s arts and cultural sector:

• Government advocacy will continue, while we also explore ways to turn the tide to increase corporate and individual giving.

• To ensure their health and vibrancy, we are exploring ways to help cultural nonprofits to partner and collaborate and to use technology in new and innovative ways.

• We are also looking at how we provide support for leaders, especially at small and community-based cultural organizations, as they face important transitions.

• Using the findings of our 2014 Patron Loyalty Study, we will help organizations connect to new audiences and deepen their relationships with current attendees.  As part of this effort, this fall we’ll be launching Phillyfunperks, the nation’s first sector-wide loyalty program for arts and culture.

• We will begin reaching out to the education community to develop strategic opportunities to better leverage our cultural assets on behalf of Philadelphia’s schoolchildren.

We know that you receive many requests for support.  You have to weigh your choices carefully, and to make your gifts where they will have the most impact. 

The Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance is a good investment.  Your gift will enable us to help hundreds of organizations, which collectively benefit millions of people in southeastern Pennsylvania, northern Delaware and southern New Jersey.  Arts and culture is one of Greater Philadelphia’s greatest assets.  We ask for your support to keep it strong, for residents today and as a legacy for the future.

Support our vision for the future. 

Sincerely,

Maud Margaret Lyon
President