Dear Members, Friends and Patrons, North River Arts Society is pleased to report that 2022 has been a positive year for our organization, with the return of in-person classes, workshops and notably the welcome return of our signature Festival of the Arts celebration. Perhaps our most momentous change in the past year was the Board’s decision to bring on NRAS’s first Executive Director, Maureen Smith. A longtime Marshfield resident and NRAS member, Maureen brings an extensive background in executive educational management and non-profit expertise. Julia Driscoll, who had been acting as our Office Manager, is focusing her talents on improving our communications and technology management. In addition, a new digital management program has streamlined office responsibilities through online class registration and membership management. North River Arts continues to be dedicated to our mission of fostering participation in, and appreciation of the arts. In addition to our wonderful exhibits—both on-site and in our satellite locations--we are committed to continue to offer high quality, community-based youth and adult art education. Our Wednesday Afterschool Program for students in grades 1-5 is just one of our successful programs. Your past support has enabled us to continue and enhance this program and to offer it to students in need through scholarship assistance.Though we celebrate the successful resumption of so many endeavors after the pandemic, our organization is not without its challenges. Managing two buildings, one of them over 200 years old, is one of those challenges. This past year has seen the completion of two major projects; a new, beautifully designed ADA compliant entrance, and the mitigation and replacement of an asbestos basement floor. Working with the Town of Marshfield, we are developing a plan for the next round of repairs which includes a new roof, painting of the interior and exterior of the building and the updating of electrical. And we continue to challenge ourselves to continue to create a more diverse selection of class offerings and exhibits. NRAS is nearly 100% volunteer based. At this time of year, we would like to mention how thankful we are for all our volunteers. They are the lifeblood of our organization and are highly valued. Anyone interested in supporting the arts in our community is welcome at NRAS, you do not need to have a background in the arts. Please feel free to contact us at northriverarts@ gmail.com. We have openings in various committees, and for specific events like the Festival of the Arts. During this season of giving, please consider the North River Arts Society in your charitable-giving plans with a tax-deductible donation to help us continue our mission to serve the community. If you have the possibility of an employer matching gift, let them know about your donation to North River Arts Society. Please donate today, either online at northriverarts.org/donate or via mail: North River Arts Society, P.O. Box 307, Marshfield Hills, MA 02051. We are incredibly grateful for all the ongoing support, and we sincerely hope that you will continue to look to NRAS as your provider of community-based art programming. We look forward to seeing you at North River Arts Society in 2023! Sincerely, Liz Haywood-Sullivan |