A Traverse City nonprofit that has provided creative spaces for people with disabilities for nearly 30 years is closing down in November.
Leadership at Arts for All of Northern Michigan says the decision was made due to lack of funding and staffing challenges left over by the pandemic.
Executive director Val McCarthy said in a Facebook post Wednesday the decision was not made lightly. The post thanked participants and donors and promised a smooth transition for everyone involved.
“While our doors may be closing, the impact of our work together will resonate in our community for years to come,” the post read.
In the last six months, McCarthy said she’s taken on responsibilities from other positions to keep the organization afloat.
“This whole landscape of finances, finding the right people, getting volunteers, grant funding cut in half, people aren't as charitable,” McCarthy said. “It was all a combination of all those factors that finally brought us to the point where we had to make the hard decision.”
“While our doors may be closing, the impact of our work together will resonate in our community for years to come."
— Arts for All social media post
Mary Gillett, who heads Northwest Michigan Arts and Culture Network, said the closure is indicative of funding issues among many arts nonprofits.
“The cavalry didn't necessarily come out for arts and culture when the pandemic hit,” Gillett said. “It's been a rough road. These are also employers, these are also businesses, these are also organizations that are serving very real needs.”
McCarthy said Arts for All is a one-of-a-kind organization in the region. Its monthly ACCESS program is designed for people with disabilities and sends families on outings to various Traverse City attractions.
Arts for All also organized an annual summer camp for area children and brought arts and cultural workshops to schools.
“It's heartbreaking because I've literally poured my heart and soul into this mission,” McCarthy said.
The last Arts for All event is the annual Pumpkin Patch Party which happens at 5 p.m. October 26th at Jacobs Farm west of Traverse City.
