Multiple Funding Sources Secured for Annual Summer Youth Program The Penn Yan Theatre Company and it

    The Penn Yan Theatre Company and its Board of Directors pride themselves on not charging enrollment fees for their programs. This commitment to accessible community theatre opportunities is evident in the organization's fundraising efforts. A significant portion of this annual funding comes from grant sources. This year, PYTCo has been fortunate to receive funding from three different sources, with a fourth application still pending.

The first award that the youth program received for this summer's production was awarded back in October 2024 by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes. Through the Keuka Area Fund, program director Dusty Baker was awarded $4,500 toward the operations of the program. Baker also successfully applied for a grant through the Yates County Youth Bureau and the Office of Children and Family Services for an additional $4,500. These two awards will work in tandem to fund a majority of the program's operations.

"These generous funds will cover the royalties and materials required to put on the show and fund the honorariums we give to our counselors and staff,” says Baker.
More than a dozen high school and college age students commit dozens of hours to the program. As a thank you, Baker and the Board of Directors give them a small honorarium for their time and commitment. "Without the counselors, camp wouldn't happen,” Baker says. “With more than 50 youth involved, we need eyes on them at all times. Our counselors serve as not only assistants but mentors and role models."

The third funding source comes from Rochester Area Community Foundation and its Arts Education program. The award of $2,500 will be used for set construction, costumes, props, and hair and makeup supplies. These funds will also be used to provide program participants with a free meal on the six days that the program operates on extended hours.

A fourth pending grant application, if awarded, will be used to fund the purchase of wireless microphone units to help enhance the quality of the production.
The program begins July 7 and runs for three weeks at Penn Yan Middle School. The summer youth program will present Seussical Jr. on July 24, 25 and 26, 2025 at Penn Yan Middle School. Tickets are available at www.pytco.org/shows.

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Contact Person:
Dusty Baker
contact@pytco.org
315.992.8509