Community Arts Foundation Seeks Concord Board Members

CENTRAL CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — The Community Arts Foundation actively seeks new board members from Walnut Creek and Concord.

The Walnut Creek-based organization raises funds for its countywide scholarship program, which serves students of all ages who want to pursue their passion for the arts at the Center for Community Arts.

"We believe in 'Arts for All,'" said Lee Oller, board co-president. "Together we advocate for and work to provide access to arts education for all, regardless of the ability to pay."

The Community Arts Foundation is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that mirrors the diverse tapestry of its community. As a board member, volunteers will not only help raise scholarship funds but will join with the organization in bringing arts awareness, advocacy and arts accessibility to the entire Contra Costa County.

Presently, the organization is looking for people with experience in marketing and social media, as well as those with fundraising and finance experience. Above all, CAF welcomes voices and perspectives from all backgrounds.

Q and A

Patch sent some questions this week to the Community Arts Foundation. Here is what Lee Oller, board co-president, had to say.

Patch: Please tell us how long you have been involved and how you first got involved.

Oller: "I've been on the CAF Board since 2019 and Co-President since 2022."

Patch: For prospective board members, how often does the board meet, and when and where?

Oller: "We meet monthly on the 2nd or 3rd Thursday; we do not meet in July, August, and December. Many meetings are in the Walnut Creek City Hall, but we occasionally meet via Zoom."

Patch: How much in scholarships does the organization typically give out annually?

"For the last several years we've given out approximately $50,000- 75,000 annually in scholarships to art students of all ages, from preschool to seniors, in all arts disciplines, from clay arts, to dance, to music, to fine art."

Patch: What are your major ways of fundraising?

Oller: "We have worked to diversify our fundraising over the years to include individual donors, business sponsors, local and regional grants, and more."

Patch: Is there anything else you would like to say to those thinking about applying to serve as a board member?

Oller: "Art rekindles the fire of imagination. At CAF we work to provide students of all ages and abilities the chance to explore the arts and find their own path to imagination. Our work is important and we believe in our mission. If this resonates with you, we hope you'll consider joining us."

How To Apply

People who are passionate about the future of arts and culture in the community are encouraged to contact Development Director Cole Portocarrero at colep.caf@gmail.com to apply. To visit the organization's website, go to Commartsfoundation.org.