WILLIAMSTOWN - When they took up a fund raising challenge last year, officials at the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute were confidant they would make their goal.
They were right. Not only did the campaign raise $15 million needed for the Stone Hill Center, it exceeded that goal by more than $1 million. Adding an $800,000 Kresge Foundation challenge grant, the total raised nears $17 million.
"The tremendous success of this effort is a validation of the quality programs and exhibitions that the Clark provides to schools, educators, families, and visitors of all ages," said Michael Conforti, director of the Clark,in a statement. "This outpouring of support is gratifying as it is truly reflective of how strongly people feel about what we do here."
The challenge grant was announced a year ago. At the time, the Stone Hill campaign had raised some $10 million; another $3.8 million had to be raised by this October to receive the challenge grant.
The $25 million Stone Hill Center was designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando, known for how his buildings fit into the natural landscape. The 32,000-square-foot wood and glass structure will house galleries, meeting rooms, classrooms and the Williamstown Art Conservation Center.
Its large windows are designed to take in the vistas surrounding the Clark. Situated near Stone Hill on the Clark campus, it will be connected to the main museum by pathways, a short road and an open terrace with an outdoor cafe. It is expected to open its doors in June 2008.
"It is extremely gratifying that the Berkshire community supported this effort and the Kresge Foundation challenge with such enthusiasm," said John Skavlem, senior director of development at the Clark, in a statement.
He said the appeal was embraced not only by current members, donors and staff, but by first-time supporters as well. "Everyone is eagerly anticipating the opening of Stone Hill Center next June."
The funds for the project come from a variety of sources, including gifts ranging from under $100 to over a $1 million from more than 300 individual donors, six foundations and a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund. The balance will be paid through borrowing.
In response to the Kresge Foundation's desire for an organization to think beyond its traditional donor base, the Clark conducted a number of special appeals, including one for Clark staff in which 95 percent of employees participated.
The national foundation has $3 billion in assets. Through its grant making programs, the Kresge Foundation seeks to strengthen non-profit organizations by catalyzing their growth, connecting them to their stakeholders, and challenging greater support through grants.
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Dalton Day Returns This Saturday
By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — The town's popular Dalton Day festival is returning this weekend after a year's hiatus.
The event will kick off this Saturday at 11 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. in the field in front of the Senior Center.
The community celebration was established in 2023 by the Cultural Council in an effort to increase resident participation at town meetings while also showcasing the area's welcoming, diverse, artistic and sporty atmosphere. In 2024, the event brought together 300 residents.
"The primary mission of Dalton Day is to foster a strong sense of community, build civic pride, and bring residents together through a shared celebration of local culture, music, and food," said Jeannie Ingram, Select Board member and cultural council chair, and Lori Venezia, executive assistant to the town manager.
The event provides an accessible and free platform for "civic education, community bonding, and supporting local businesses, artisans, makers, and culture more broadly," they said.
The festival strengthens the fabric of the town both civically and economically by connecting grassroots organizations with residents, fostering a shared sense of belonging, and providing free, family-friendly entertainment.
It also serves as an opportunity for community members to meet with local officials and a couple of state officials. State Sen. Paul Mark and state Rep. Leigh Davis will be coming from Beacon Hill to speak at the event.
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