Help Weehawken secure its future in Ouray County!
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
Weehawken Creative ArtsSupport the purchase and development of a critical property at 145/147 North Cora Street in Ridgway
$245
raised by 4 people
$100,000 goal
7 days left
New update
2025–2026 Update: Vacancy at 147 N. Cora & What Comes Next
In late 2025, Weehawken Creative Arts and Ridgway Chautauqua were faced with an unexpected and heartbreaking transition when the long-term tenant (30+ years!) at 147 N. Cora sadly passed away. His presence was a meaningful part of the building’s history, and we are grateful for the many years he called this space home and work.
His passing has left the building fully in our care—and while it came sooner than anticipated, it has opened an important and urgent opportunity for us to finally begin activating 147 N. Cora in alignment with our long-term vision of creating a true arts campus in Ridgway.
However, the vacancy brings significant and immediate financial and facility needs. The space was never fully renovated when purchased (as it was live/work), and substantial upgrades are required before it can safely and effectively serve as classroom, workshop, rehearsal, rental, or community space.
Immediate Needs at 147 N. Cora
To bring the building up to code and prepare it for programming, rentals, and events, we must address:
Complete electrical replacement
Insulation and weatherproofing (the building currently lacks insulation)
Drywall repair and finishing
Moderate bathroom upgrades
Installation of a new clean-up station/kitchenette
Washer/dryer installation to support costuming and textile needs
Ceiling insulation above 145 N. Cora to improve energy efficiency
New storage construction
Projector/screen and basic furnishings to prepare the space for multi-use activity
These improvements are essential for safety, energy efficiency, usability, and long-term sustainability.
Why This Matters Now
As we work toward paying down the loan on the property, activating 147 N. Cora is a major next step. Every improvement strengthens the campus and expands our ability to serve the community.
Once renovated, 147 N. Cora will be able to function as:
A classroom and workshop space
A home for community gatherings
A flexible venue supporting programming for both organizations
A potential rental space generating earned revenue
A key part of a future multi-building arts campus in Ridgway
How You Can Help
As we enter this next phase, donor support is more vital than ever. Every contribution helps transform an underutilized building into a vibrant, functional space for creativity, learning, and community connection.
If you’d like to learn more, see the space, or discuss giving opportunities, we would be honored to talk with you.
Together, we can bring 147 N. Cora to life and continue building a lasting home for the arts in Ouray County.
Key to the Future: A Capital Campaign for Weehawken Creative Arts
Weehawken Creative Arts is unlocking the door to a brighter future with our Key to the Future Capital Campaign! This campaign supports the purchase and development of a critical property at 145/147 North Cora Street in Ridgway, CO. Shared with our partners at Ridgway Chautauqua/Sherbino, this space is vital for the continued growth of our arts education and community programs.
In 2022, Weehawken and Ridgway Chautauqua/Sherbino seized the opportunity to purchase this property, identified in a 2019 master facility plan as a key piece of our campus. With your help, we can fully pay off the remaining balance of $230,000 and secure this space for future generations.
This campaign ensures that:
- Classes, performances, and events have a permanent home, enabling us to expand offerings in arts, dance, and community engagement.
- Weehawken’s programs can grow sustainably, meeting the increasing demand from students and families across Ouray, Ridgway, and Montrose.
- The cultural heart of our community remains strong, supporting year-round opportunities for connection and creativity.
Your gift to the Key to the Future campaign is an investment in the power of the arts to transform lives. Help us unlock the potential of this space and ensure a thriving future for Weehawken Creative Arts!
Join us today in shaping the future of arts and culture in Southwest Colorado. Together, we hold the key!