We urgently need your help!
Washington's House of Representatives did not include Centrum funding in its first version of the budget. However, as of April 7, the House passed an amendment that reinstated a portion of the funding. This is great news!
The budget moves to the Senate next, and finally, to the Governor for approval. But first, you have an opportunity for your voice to be heard.
Nearly 65,000 Washington students have experienced arts programs at Fort Worden State Park in Centrum's 38 years. During this time, Centrum has received partial state funding ($170,000 per year) for these programs through the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to make these programs affordable for schools.
If you or your children, or someone you know have benefited from Centrum's programs, we ask that you take a moment now to send an email or make a phone call (or both!) to your legislators in Olympia. It's easy – just follow the links and the steps outlined below.
Your action in the next 48 hours is critically important to this process. The time is now to let your legislators know that Centrum is important to you and to your friends and neighbors across the state. Please take a moment to reach out to your elected officials in Olympia, and help ensure that future generations of young artists have life changing experiences at Centrum.
Thank you for your consideration and for your support.
Sincerely,
John A. MacElwee
Executive Director
Centrum
- Find Your Legislator (click on the link above)
- Enter your address or zip code
- Select your Representative or Senator
- Click on email (take down their phone number)
- Reconfirm your address or zip code
- Enter your contact information
- Request a response (recommended)
- CC other legislators in your district (recommended)
- In the subject line please write:
Please Retain Funding for Centrum Youth Programs - Type your note in the comment section (sample provided below)
PLEASE: Follow up your email with a phone call!
Sample Letter
Dear Senator (or) Representative (Last Name),
I am writing to ask you to retain funding for Centrum's youth programs at Fort Worden State Park in the amended bill PSHB 1087, and its Senate counterpart, as it moves through the legislative process.
For 38 years, Centrum has provided tens of thousands of Washington students life changing experiences through the arts during residencies at the Park.
(Personally, Centrum has offered (me, my child, our community) the chance….)
(I feel strongly about Centrum because….)
Centrum also provides critical revenue for our state's treasury, returning nearly 400% on the state investment through usage fees.
Thank you for your consideration.
(Your name)