Generosity in Uncertain Times

The stock market had a terrible week, but that didn’t dampen the spirits or generosity of 300 patrons who attended the Oregon Symphony’s gala fundraiser, “Under a Latin Moon” on Oct. 17.

Treated to a full-orchestra performance of the lively Mexican piece, Huapango, gala guests enjoyed a Latin-themed meal while bidding enthusiastically at the auction, which featured such popular items as Music Director Carlos Kalmar cooking a dinner in your home (which he will  be doing three times!) a recital by Concertmaster Jun Iwasaki and a private performance by Pink Martini. The event raised more than $120,000 in net income to support the Oregon Symphony’s concerts and education programs.

We hope this is an indicator that our loyal supporters will continue to give to the Oregon Symphony despite the stormy economic climate. In a way, we are lucky that we don’t have huge corporate backing – non-profit organizations in some other cities have had to cope with the sudden elimination of massive sponsorships. Yet, like all investors, the Oregon Symphony must hunker down until the market swings upwards again. And, like most arts organizations, our earned income from ticket sales covers only half of our operating expenses, so we must depend on the generosity of our donors to stay in business.

December will be a crucial month for us, as the vast majority of our individual donors like to make their charitable contributions at the end of the calendar year.  We have some reasons to be optimistic: Legislation passed this fall allowing tax-free IRA distributions to charity for donors age 70-½ or older. With high costs of travel, people may be staying closer to home, buying tickets and donating to local arts organizations.  And in tough economic times, people often want to support non-profit organizations in their own communities first.

We hope so!  Please join our family with your own year-end gift.  To find out more about donating to the Oregon Symphony and membership benefits, contact the Development Department at 503-228-4294 or visit our web site: Orsymphony.org/get involved.

Leslie Tuomi
Vice President for Development