The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation has the privilege of helping support the activities of many local nonprofits. This month's Non-Profit Highlight is dedicated to Second Stage in Amherst, Virginia.
A Little History
Starting in 2012, a grassroots group took the initiative to save a historic structure in the heart of Amherst, VA, and to re-purpose it as a creative community center. Located in the middle of a vibrant village, the goal was to provide a gathering place for public events such as performances, meetings, classes and workshops, community forums and a farmers' market. The complete dream was to provide studios and office spaces for rent. All of these things are now happening!
More Information about Second Stage in Amherst, Virginia
The Mission of Second Stage is:
To inspire creativity and community by providing a place where the cultural, civic and economic vitality of Amherst County is encouraged.
This little treasure in Amherst, Virginia has been a staple to the community, and an organization that we have been proud to support. They are not only recognized with a Silver Seal of Transparency, but they also earned the 2019 title of Non-profit business of the year from Amherst County Chamber of Commerce.
Studio spaces at Second Stage have been rented by artists, classes and even small businesses. Many area organizations are holding regular meetings in the public spaces.
One major highlight of Second Stage is their Market. The Market, Second Stages take on a Farmer's Market, hosts numerous different vendors each week, highlighting what the community has to offer its residents. Due to COVID, they have implemented an online ordering system for those who wish to still support local vendors. The Market runs from May 20 until October 28.
Second Stage also offers a wide variety of live events and classes that are fun for the whole family! Activities include:
- Live Music
- Art Classes
- Movie Nights on the Lawn
- Yoga Sessions
- ...and more!
Impact
We would be amiss if we didn't take a few moments to recognize Second Stage's community impact. Not only are they providing a unique space for people to gather in Amherst County, they also handle quite a few different service projects to impact all age groups within the community. Some of their most recent projects have been:
Second Helping Program: This program served as a way for Second Stage to help their neighbors who might not have access to fresh food. This program supported local farmers as well as those in need of food within the community.
Movies on the Menu Program: This educational and fun, five-week program opened the door for the organization to support children within the community. The program focused on teaching kids how to cook. Each week, the kids were sent home with ingredients to make food at home. Each meal was accompanied by a featured film that was centered around food.
The GLCF is proud to be a part of bringing this type of change to our community. To learn more about this unique organization in Amherst, visit their website!