Fuel the Future for August Wilson African American Cultural Center

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC), a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s Cultural District and one of the largest Black multi-disciplinary arts centers in the nation, today announced its "Fuel the Future" fundraising drive. Marking the 15th anniversary of its iconic building and August Wilson’s 80th Birthday, the Center aims to raise $1.5 million to ensure its continued impact and success for generations to come.

Since opening its doors, AWAACC has hosted some of the most significant artists of our time, showcasing powerful performances and impactful visual art. Now, the Center is calling upon its community and valued partners to invest in its future, laying the groundwork for continued growth as a vital resource and beacon of inspiration.

"For 15 years, the Center has been a vibrant hub for Black arts and culture, enriching the lives of countless individuals," said Janis Burley, President & CEO / Artistic Director at AWAACC. "Now, we look to the future with ambition and a commitment to expanding our reach and global impact. The 'Fuel the Future' drive will empower us to continue providing inspiring programming, engaging the young minds of future artists and arts-goers, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of this singular institution."

The "Fuel the Future" campaign will support key initiatives, including:

• Presenting world-class programming and powerful storytelling: Connecting national and local audiences through compelling art, storytelling, and exchange around the rich culture of the African American experience and the African diaspora.
• Engaging and inspiring youth: Offering school-aged children in the region access to extraordinary visual, performing, and literary arts.
• Establishing reserve funds: Maintaining AWAACC as an enduring source for culture, community, and connection and allowing the Center to make strategic investments in advanced technology for its state-of-the-art facility.

Gifts of all sizes are welcome and will make a tangible difference. Contributions of $100 or more will be recognized on AWAACC’s community thank you wall. Naming opportunities for seats and spaces are also available starting at $500.

Significant early gifts show the community's commitment to AWAACC’s mission. Duquesne Light Company and UPMC and UPMC Health Plan have made early corporate commitments. Additionally, AWAACC supporters Howard and April Russell have made a generous leadership gift of $15,000 to celebrate 15 years.

Duquesne Light Company President & CEO Kevin Walker is corporate chair of the Fuel the Future Fundraising Drive. AWAACC Board Member Rex Rideout serves as co-chair and retired president of the Urban League of Pittsburgh, Esther Bush, is a Legacy Advisor.

"Your support is a vital investment in our shared artistic and cultural future," Burley urged. "Every year, 100,000 individuals walk through our doors. If each of these visitors contributes just $15 to Fuel the Future, we can reach our goal and spark the Center's next chapter. Join us in amplifying artists' voices, inspiring the next generation, and ensuring the enduring power of August Wilson's legacy."

For more information on how to get involved and to view a complete list of supporters, visit awaacc.org/fuelthefuture.

ABOUT AUGUST WILSON AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is a nonprofit cultural organization located in Pittsburgh’s cultural district that generates artistic, educational, and community initiatives that advance the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson. One of the largest cultural centers in the country focused exclusively on the African American experience and the celebration of Black culture and the African diaspora, the non-profit organization welcomes more than 100,000 visitors locally and nationally. Through year-round programming across multiple genres, such as the annual Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, Black Bottom Film Festival, AWCommunity Days, TRUTHSayers speaker series, and rotating art exhibits in its galleries, the Center provides a platform for established and emerging artists of color whose work reflects the universal issues of identity that Wilson tackled, and which still resonate today.

Major support for AWAACC’s operations is provided by Richard King Mellon Foundation, Henry L. Hillman Foundation, Heinz Endowments, and the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD). AWAACC’s programming is made possible by generous support from its donors. For a complete list, visit our website. www.awaacc.org