Little Compton Theater Space Is Getting A Facelift

The Little Compton Community Center received $10,000 from the Rhode Island Foundation to revitalize its communal theater space. Each week, the center hosts over 80 hours of community use with the theater often being a central feature of those programs and events.

“This funding, combined with a matching private donation, will bring our 20-year old lighting, sound and visual equipment into the modern era and dramatically improve the presentation of and the enjoyment of programs in the theater,” said Doug Orville, executive director.

“Replacing and upgrading the lighting, visual and sound equipment will make the programs and events more successful for the whole community,” he said.

The community center competed with more than 100 organizations for the funding from the Foundation’s competitive Community Grants program. The maximum grant was $10,000. Most of the work is expected to be underway before the end of the year.

“Our grants will create places to gather, make friendships and launch new collaborations that will build community connections everywhere,” said Jessica David, the Foundation’s executive vice president of strategy and community investments.

“We’re excited about these ideas for making community happen in more and better ways at the local level. Supporting community-building will improve shared places and quality of life, promote collaboration and increase community engagement,” she said.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Working with generous and visionary donors, the Foundation raised $114 million and awarded $52 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities in 2018. Through leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information, visit rifoundation.org.