What defines community? At River Arts, we believe it is the individual's capacity to believe in each other; to create with open hearts and a collective mission in mind- invention, connection, and empowerment. These are the pillars that define our work at River Arts, where we work diligently every day to create opportunities for our community to feel inspired and thrive.

As we reflect on the last year, we honor its struggles and the successes. We acknowledge the limitations and loss from the pandemic, but furthermore, we see the generosity and kindness that has arisen within our community. River Arts is proud to serve the compassionate individuals of Lamoille County and beyond.

Similarly, within the doors at River Arts, we have experienced our own set of challenges from the pandemic. We have worked hard to meet adversity with creativity, re framing “limitations” as valuable learning experiences to re-imagine ways to be a more inclusive and equitable organization. Throughout the setbacks due to covid19 we continued to keep our doors open, recognizing the essential service that art provides through such trying times. In 2021 we offered 79 programs including our adult, youth and elder arts classes, serving 5128 individuals, many of whom received financial assistance. We hosted 14 exhibitions, 10 free community projects and collaborated with 17 community partners.

2022 promises to be an exciting year of revitalization and growth for River Arts. This past fall we were pleased to announce our shift to a Co-Directorship model, hiring Selina Coté and Lisa Wolfgang to lead the way. With this shared leadership, alongside the board, we have been re-imagining River Arts in ways that would make us more inclusive and equitable organization. As we begin a new year, we feel energized with a renewed sense of our mission of Arts for Everyone regardless of age, race, gender, ability or financial means. We are inspired to get to work!

As we step into the new year we ask that you recognize the impact of these efforts by donating to River Arts. Thanks to the generous contribution of an anonymous donor, every dollar you contribute today will be matched up to $10,000 and go directly to our mission of Arts for Everyone. Please help us keep this mission alive!