Frugality and creativity have always been part of the Symphony’s history. The WSO Board and League have created superb fundraising events that have held the organization above water during especially challenging times. Special efforts like the Symphony Ball and Garden Tour generate substantial funds which are deeply appreciated by the WSO Board of Directors. In addition to special events, other fund development efforts add pivotal revenue to the Symphony’s bottom line.
Sponsorships
Sponsorships are now part of almost every WSO performance. Businesses donate to the Symphony and sponsor a performance or soloist and receive prominent placement in programs or signs; many also receive complimentary tickets for their donation. Media sponsors donate specific marketing services that help the organization reach as many audience members as possible with no charge to the Symphony.
Annual Friends Campaign
The Annual Friends Campaign is conducted primarily in the fall of each season. It is an opportunity for individuals to support the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra at a level that is meaningful to them. “Friends” receive valuable benefits based on the level of their donation. For example, at the Associate Level (a donation of $300-$599), donors are listed in the program, receive the WSO newsletter and special event invitations along with an opportunity to watch a WSO rehearsal and a certificate that can be redeemed for “two for one” tickets to any available Symphony performance. Member donors will also receive an invitation to a season finale reception at the Carroll College campus. For a complete list of donor levels and benefits, click here.
Planned Giving
The Waukesha Symphony Orchestra also offers Planned Giving Programs, designed to ensure that the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra will continue for future generations. Options include Wills and Bequests, Trusts (like a Charitable Remainder Trust), Insurance (an old cash value policy), Appreciated Stock and Retirement Plan Proceeds.
Endowment Funds
In addition, the WSO offers four Endowment Funds that are open and accept additional donations. The endowment principal is not spent; only earnings from the funds may be used to support the Symphony.
|
The Waukesha Symphony Orchestra Endowment Fund provides income to support the general operations of the Symphony. Contributions to this restricted fund are invested to preserve the principal in perpetuity. Earnings of the fund may be used to support the Orchestra's budget. Gifts to this permanent fund help to preserve the future of classical music in our communities.
|
The James and Dorothy Goff Frisch Endowment Fund was created to honor these founding members of the WSO. Contributions are invested to preserve the fund principal; earnings are used to sponsor a WSO soloist during the season.
|
| The Waukesha Symphony Orchestra League Education Investment Fund provides funding for the educational programs of the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra and League. The programs include the Shining Stars Scholarships for middle and high school students and Major Classics for Minors, which brings WSO musicians into local schools for an interactive presentation about sound and music. |
The Anthony W. Bryant Scholarship Fund honors businessman and philanthropist, Tony Bryant, who has been a WSO advocate for many years. The scholarship is awarded by competitive audition to a graduating high school senior who declares an intention to major in music while in college.
|
In-kind Donations
In-kind donations are also accepted, including the donation of string instruments – especially ½-size violins and 12-inch violas, ½-size and ¾ size cellos and ½-size basses. These instruments are desperately needed by the underserved students who take part in the Success Through Music program at four locations in Waukesha and Milwaukee counties. If you have a gently used instrument to donate, contact the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra at 262/547-1858.
For more information about any of these options, contact
WSO Development Director Christine Slowinski
or at 262/547-1858.
|
