Museum of Art Fort Collins

Background Statement

40 years ago our organization was a small but determined force, with just one staff member/founder Roz Spencer and dedicated volunteers. Fast forward to today, and we stand as a testament to the power of community support. With eight dedicated staff members, 646 passionate members, an operating budget of $639,000, and own the majority of one of Fort Collins' most significant buildings. MoA continues to thrive. We proudly remain the sole community-supported nonprofit art museum in the heart of our city.

Your support has not only fueled our growth but has also played a pivotal role in securing the future of the historic building that houses the museum. In May 2022, we acquired the upper floors of this iconic structure, ensuring that MoA remains at the very heart of Old Town. With your help, we're working towards the day when this building will be fully restored, rekindling its original purpose as a civic asset.

This year marked a significant milestone in our journey: the launch of the "MoA for All" program. This initiative embodies our commitment to making the arts equally accessible to everyone in our community. MoA for All offers free access to children under 18, students from Poudre School District, Front Range Community College, and Colorado State University, as well as active and retired military personnel and families on SNAP assistance.

But MoA for All goes beyond that. We've forged partnerships with local nonprofits, social service providers, and the Poudre School District to offer free family nights, exhibit space, agency memberships, and events at no charge. We believe in not only helping these organizations fulfill their missions but also in providing cultural enrichment opportunities to their clients, fostering a sense of belonging.

In March, we expanded our commitment further by dedicating 2,500 square feet on the second floor to create the "MoA for All: Art Engagement Center." This space is dedicated to education, community-curated exhibits, and event hosting.

The success of MoA for All has been made possible through a community of supporters like you. With over $50,000 in grants, donations, and sponsorships, we have ensured that this program remains financially sustainable, serving over 2,000 individuals in its first year. It's a testament to the incredible impact your generosity has on our community.

Here's How You Can Make a Difference:

Today, we stand on the cusp of a remarkable opportunity. Thanks to a generous donor, we have a $40,000 challenge grant. The best part? Every dollar you contribute will be matched, dollar for dollar, if we meet this challenge by December 31, 2023. Your donation will have a twofold impact, doubling what we achieved at the end of last year. This foundation will be the bedrock of our efforts in 2024, ensuring that we can continue to offer free and fee-based programs that enrich our community.

MoA is on a transformative journey, redefining its role in the community as a hub for art, education, and inclusivity. As we continue to evolve and grow, our vision of a vibrant city where art and culture are accessible to all is the cornerstone of our success.

With a profound commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, MoA for All is poised to become a model for museums across the nation. We aspire to create a space where every individual belongs and where MoA belongs to everyone.