Dear Friends,
On Friday, May 2, I received notification from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) regarding the unfortunate withdrawal of our $10,000 grant. This grant was particularly significant as it marked the first time The Growing Stage was recognized by the NEA—a source of great pride for our team and a testament to our hard work.
While this setback is disappointing, it does not diminish our achievements. Instead, it reinforces our determination to move forward. I have taken advantage of the seven-day appeal window to seek the restoration of the grant and have emailed a letter this morning requesting a review of their decision. As part of this effort, I have also reached out to Congressmen Kean and Gottheimer, as well as Congresswoman Sherrill, as well as to their staffs. The work of The Growing Stage has a positive impact on the entire northern New Jersey community, and it is crucial that we garner their support. Your assistance in sending your support would be greatly appreciated as well and contact information has been provided below.
In the coming days, we will proudly announce our 44th Main Stage season. Throughout our history, we have encountered numerous challenges, and I am confident in our ability to navigate this one. My concerns regarding the immediate future are tempered by the knowledge that The Growing Stage is not reliant on any single individual or political philosophy.
Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our artists, funding partners, and patrons, we are committed to continuing our mission.
Our work matters; our creativity inspires; and, most importantly, the young people we serve deserve our best efforts. That will not change. Thank you for your continued support.
Best wishes,
Steve
Stephen L. Fredericks
Founder/Executive Director
Contact Our Local Officials:
Rep. Josh Gottheimer:
Zachary Newman | zachary.newman@mail.house.gov | (202) 225-4465
Michelle Schein | Michelle.Schein@mail.house.gov
Kiley Parker | kiley.parker@mail.house.gov
Rep. Tom Kean Jr:
Paula Huff | paula.huff@mail.house.gov | (202) 225-5361
Christopher Hall | christopher.hall@mail.house.gov
Rep. Mikie Sherrill:
Julie Jochem | julie.jochem@mail.house.gov | (202) 225-5034
Lora Nedza | lora.nedza@mail.house.gov
Blaine Boyd | Blaine.Boyd@mail.house.gov
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Steve Fredericks at sfredericks@growingstage.com
