Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1507716
W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 11 G I V I N G G U I D E 2 0 2 3 – 2 0 2 4 GIVING GUIDE including consolidations and merg- ers that put the best interests of the communities and people we serve at the center of our work and ensure that direct services do not diminish at a time when they are most needed. Nick Turner Executive director of the Grand in Ellsworth Looking for 'financial stability' e Grand in Ellsworth was built in 1938 as an economic driver for the new Main Street. In 1975, Han- cock County Auditorium Associ- ates was formed to save the dete- riorating building from demolition. It's now on the National Historic Registry. e Grand serves as an arts, education and entertainment anchor for Ellsworth and greater Hancock County. Financial stability is the singular biggest challenge facing the Grand and has been for many years. Non- profits are experiencing an unprece- dented decline in philanthropy. e Grand has chosen to focus on bet- ter and brighter programming and improving concessions, including adding beer and wine. is pivot initiated a 49% increase in ticket and concession sales from fiscal year 2018 to 2019 and experienced an impressive improvement in finan- cial stability. All indications were that this trend would continue in 2020. e Grand saw momentum disappear in Learn more and donate today at campaignforendinghunger.org Hunger doesn't take a break and neither do we. Since 1990, Maine credit unions have made a difference in their communities by raising money to feed those in need through the Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger. Join us! Donate to the campaign today, and ensure all Maine families have access to healthy, nutritious meals. Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity. Your charitable contribution to our organization is tax deductible. C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » Nick Turner, far right, says financial stability has been the Grand's biggest challenge. P H O T O / C O U R T E S Y O F N I C K T U R N E R The Grand shuttered for 18 months and experienced an almost 100% loss of revenue during the COVID shutdown. — Nick Turner The Grand