An impromptu fundraiser at Tuesday night’s City Party raised $1,065.53 to help support the Sonoma Community Center (SCC). Brought on a by a band of gutsy women who moved through the crowd, bags and baskets in hand, asking party goers for a simple $1 donation, the money netted will help the center pay a portion of the party’s cost.
According to Kathy Swett, SCC Executive Director, the donation came as a welcome, albeit total surprise.
“We are just overwhelmed by this gift. And I’m really proud of the crowd – of Sonoma for stepping up to the plate and giving so generously,” said Swett.
According to Swett the donation will help offset the cost of the party, for which the SCC shells out $8,000 to cover the bands, staging, portable toilets and more. About $6,000 of this cost is underwritten by the Rotary Club, for which Swett says she is extremely grateful.
The SCC is an endangered species in Sonoma, beleaguered by a $100,000 deficit and lacking capital to repair and operate the 94-year-old building. If the funds aren’t found, the center could be forced to move or close within the next two years.
A public meeting was recently held to hear any and all ideas about how to sustain the operation and shore up the building, which needs at least $2 million in improvements.
Sonomans have danced it up at the annual City Party for the past 13 years. Originally hosted by the city of Sonoma, hence the name, the SCC took the reins three years ago but still partners with the city for behind-the-scenes work.
At this year’s party, SCC staffers wore bright red “Save the Community Center” badges and had an information and membership table front and center. According to Swett, the SCC will be at the City Council meeting on August 19 to discuss strategy for continued support from the city. An ongoing membership drive is critical and staffers are toying with other ideas to keep the Center afloat.
Given the level of spirit at the City Party, one hopes that support will translate into new members.
“The real idea behind the City Party is one spontaneous event that brings together everyone who lives and works in the Valley,” said Swett. “It’s about being a community and thinking nice thoughts. This donation is exactly that and we’re incredibly thankful for it and the community in which we live.”
