We’re Grateful—And We’re Asking for Your Help

Dear Friends,

Because of your voices and advocacy, we’re proud to share that a critical portion of our funding through the Polk County Tourism Development Council remains intact. That’s no small victory, and we’re deeply thankful to everyone who took the time to speak out.

Unfortunately, we also have some harder news to share:
The Lake Wales Arts Council was not selected for the $90,000 General Program Support grant from the Florida Department of State. This was funding we had received in the past, and its absence will be felt across all areas of our work—from arts education and concerts to exhibitions and community programming.

We’ve been overwhelmed by the encouragement this community has offered us over the past few years. You’ve told us how much the Arts Council means to you, and that support is what keeps us going. But in order to continue the momentum we’ve built together, we’re going to need your help again.

This is a moment where local support—individuals, families, businesses, and foundations—will make the difference.

In the past weeks, we have received major contributions from the George W. Jenkins Fund within the GiveWell Community Foundation ($15,000) and a donor who prefers to remain anonymous ($15,000) that are helping us to close that gap. Some of you have also renewed your annual memberships and I can eagerly report that every single contribution matters!

If you’ve ever walked through one of our exhibitions, sent your child to Summer Arts Camp, attended a concert, or simply believe in the value of creativity and culture in a small city like ours, we’re asking you to consider a gift, a membership, or a sponsorship.

I’ll say it again: Every single contribution matters.

Together, we can close the gap left by the loss of state funding—and ensure that Lake Wales continues to be a place where the arts aren’t just appreciated, but essential.

Thank you for standing with us,

Tommy Frank
Executive Director
Lake Wales Arts Council

P.S. If you’d like to help, please consider:

  • Becoming an Individual or Household member

  • Increasing your membership level

  • Sponsoring a program or concert (i.e. Sacred Currents: Spirituality in Africa Art exhibition or Lake Wales Live concert series)

  • Making a one-time or recurring donation

We’d love to work with you to find the right way to be involved.