The Burchfield Penney Art Center at SUNY Buffalo State today announced it has been awarded a grant of $15,000 from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo to increase educational staff capacity to provide arts education for underserved youth.
Each year, the museum engages diverse audiences and enriches the lives of nearly 70,000 people through exhibitions of art in all media and 200-plus public programs. The Burchfield Penney has received national recognition for its community partnerships that result in long-term relationships, and in-depth educational programs. Flexible and responsive to the needs of each client group, the museum provides hands-on artmaking opportunities, sensory-enhanced exhibitions and tours or relaxation and respite for clients and caregivers.
“We serve thousands of children throughout our community who often don't have access to artists, arts educators and world-class museum facilities,” said Burchfield Penney executive director Dennis Kois. “Our learning model purposefully responds to interests, needs, and expectations. The grant will allow us to broaden outreach and strengthen instrumental alliances with more than a dozen school districts and community-based organizations. Committed to access and helping all children thrive, we thank the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo for helping us to open our doors even wider.”
About the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo
Celebrating its centennial year in 2019, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo was established in 1919 to enhance and encourage long-term philanthropy in the Western New York community. A 501 (c)(3) organization, the Community Foundation’s mission is: Connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives in Western New York. For 100 years the Community Foundation has made the most of the generosity of individuals, families, foundations and organizations who entrust charitable assets to the Community Foundation’s care. Learn more at www.cfgb.org.
About the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Fund
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds were established at the Community Foundation to provide support to four areas that were important to Mr. Wilson: caregivers, community assets, design and access, and youth sports. Endowment funds, like these created to honor Mr. Wilson, are designed to grow over time and provide funding for charitable causes according to a client’s wishes.