CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

Cultivating the Arts for the Next Generation

For 35 years, the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center has been the place where people gather, create, learn, and belong. Now, the building that holds it all needs our help.

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WHAT

A $2.3 Million Investment in Rural Minnesota's Creative Future

The Cultivating Community Capital Campaign is a $2.3 million investment in the future of arts, culture, and community in rural Minnesota. Thanks to early leadership gifts, we’ve already raised $1.47 million. Now, we need your help to finish the work.

This campaign will:

Preserve and protect our historic 1885 building
Expand spaces for arts, education, and community connection
Strengthen key community assets beyond our walls

This is not just a building project, it’s an investment in people, creativity, and the future of our region.

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WHY

Because a Place Like This Doesn't Happen Twice

What started as a bold and unique idea (that arts and culture could thrive in a rural place) has grown into a vital hub for community connection and creativity. This building has held concerts, classes, exhibits, conversations, and celebrations for decades. It has welcomed thousands of people through its doors. But today, our community space faces real and urgent needs.

(Fun fact: The Cultural Center is the oldest building in New York Mills, dating back to 1885!)

check out our full case statement here

Without investment:

The building will continue to deteriorate

Accessibility will remain limited

Opportunities for growth will be constrained

With your support, we can:

Expand access so more people feel welcome

Preserve a historic community anchor

Create space for new ideas, new programs, and new connections

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WHEN

Renovations Have Begun and the Next Phase Depends on YOU

With $1.47 million already committed and construction actively underway, the momentum is real and the time is now. What happens next depends on community support coming in now, before costs grow and opportunities shrink.

Timely investment is critical to:

Address current building needs before they become more costly
Maintain and grow programming without interruption
Build toward a sustainable future for the Cultural Center

Your support today keeps this project moving forward and this community space open for everyone.

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HOW

How We're Putting Every Dollar to Work

We're moving forward with a clear, phased plan.

Phase 1: Modernize and Protect Our Historic Building

Tuckpointing and structural preservation
Front façade restoration
Infrastructure upgrades
Improved sustainability and energy efficiency

Phase 2: Grow Our Capacity to Inspire and Serve

Expand space by 1,600 sq ft
Add flexible studios and education space
Install an elevator for accessibility
Create a fully connected meeting room
Add a drive-through coffee shop

Phase 3: Strengthen Community Assets Beyond Our Walls

Enhance the Sculpture Park as a free public art space
Invest in the Artist Retreat House for visiting artists
Increase accessibility and public art opportunities

Enscape_2024-10-28-15-25-22_Enscape scene 1

Future Front Facade

Enscape_2024-10-28-15-25-22_Enscape scene 4

Future Back Expansion

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WHO

You Can Be Part of Rural Arts History

Every gift counts toward a place that has counted on this community for 35 years. Whether you give once, pledge over time, or honor someone who loved this space, your support keeps rural arts alive and growing. Renovations are already underway. The next phase is yours to help make happen.

Flexible giving options include: