http://66.225.205.104/SO20090312.mp3
The arts and science funding organization had expected a dip this year. And President Lee Keesler sent notice to the groups it funds back in December to expect a smaller pot. He says, "As we kicked off and moved through the six week time period the environment actually seemed to be getting worse rather than better. so it just got tougher and tougher through the campaign."
Keesler says the ASC is looking at a significant revenue shortfall next year as its endowment fund shrinks and corporate donors get battered by the economy. In contrast, the one-time Critical Needs Fund to cover emergency food, clothing and shelter in Mecklenburg County has seen strong support. The fund started with a one-million dollar gift from the Levine foundation. Since it started in December it has more than doubled. Keesler says his hat is off to the Critical Needs effort and says arts fundraising is hit hardest in a bad economy.