MARY REESE COMMUNITY ACCESS FUND
The Mary Reese Community Access Fund was established to ensure that all members of our community have access to the arts! Named in memory of Mary P. Reese who was a long time Board member of The Paramount and ardent community advocate for the arts, education, and equal opportunities for all, this fund allows us to provide outreach and scholarships to students and members of our community, who otherwise may not have access The Paramount’s events and programs. Throughout the year, The Paramount partners with dozens of community non-profits such as the Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Club of Central Virginia, Community Attention Foster Families, Innisfree, International Neighbors, Parade Rest, ReadyKids, The Center, as well as school groups and other community organizations, offering complimentary or discounted tickets to Paramount events and programs. In 2018-19, The Paramount welcomed 1,500 community members from more than 70 non-profits with complimentary tickets to 77 events!
In addition, nonprofit organizations are able to utilize theater space at a discounted rate afforded through the Mary Reese Community Access Fund. In 2018-29, nearly 38 local nonprofit organizations hosted performances, speakers, and events that were supported by thousands of event attendees. These groups ranged from the Virginia Film Festival to the Festival of the Book, Light House, Literacy Volunteers, Charlottesville Municipal Band, Charlottesville Opera, UVA’s Office for Diversity & Equity, and many more.
The Mary Reese Community Access Fund also helps support The Paramount opening its doors for select events at no charge to the public. Last year alone, The Paramount hosted 51 free community events! Whether it is a free movie screening during the Grand Illumination, Historic Tours, or inviting the community to watch ACC Basketball and World Cup Soccer on the big screen, these free community events that give back to the public and connect community serve as an integral part of the Theater’s mission.
The Paramount’s mission is to Educate, Enchant, Enrich, and Enlighten. Our funds allow us to achieve this by supporting specific aspects of our community-focused mission.
