Opera Roanoke challenged to raise $250,000

A new performing challenge for Opera Roanoke off the stage.

According to a news release, the group says an anonymous donor has offered to match dollar-for-dollar contributions to the Opera Roanoke endowment fund up to $250,000.  The donations will have to be pledged and paid within the next three years to qualify.

If the challenge is fully met, Opera Roanoke’s endowment fund will rise to $1 million.

The group uses the endowment to provide money each year.  A portion of the earnings are made available to Opera Roanoke, while the rest is reinvested as a hedge against inflation.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our supporters to not only make a gift that will continue to provide income to the company in perpetuity, but to get double the bang for their buck,” stated Katherine Watts, Chair of the Endowment Committee, in the news release.  “In this economy, we are all looking for ways to stretch our dollars and this is a way for a one dollar investment to automatically become a two dollar investment. And a gift to the Endowment Fund truly is ‘the gift that keeps on giving’ as it benefits Opera Roanoke each and every year.” Watts added.

“We know that many arts organizations are struggling right now and we are very gratified that this donor not only believes in the value of what we do, but is willing to make such a significant investment in our future,” said Roger Dalton, President of the Board of Trustees, in the news release.  “It’s just a great way to make an investment in the future of Opera Roanoke,” Dalton added.

You can find more information about the group by clicking here: http://www.operaroanoke.org