Art Rapids! will hold a Volunteer Fair on Tuesday, August 17 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. All community members are invited to attend. Since its inception in 2005, the organization has been devoted to the promotion of the arts and art education in the Elk Rapids area. In 2006, the first Art Rapids fair was held in Memorial Park. Since that time, the group has become a 501(c)3 charitable organization which gives scholarships, grants, and performances to the community.
Art Rapids President Kris Elbert states, "There are so many opportunities for involvement in this organization. Whether you have skills in marketing, management, computer technology, or simply want to meet more people in the area, there is a volunteer job for you. And, it's not necessary to reside in the area year-round at all." For example, she adds, "Members of our education committee are most active in the fall and spring; the art fair committee is busiest in May and June; some roles are active year-round." There are varying levels of commitment, as well. Vice President Sherri DeCamp said, "Some people choose to volunteer for a few hours at the art fair, or assist with mailings or putting up posters and signs; others choose roles that involve a larger time commitment."
This summer, the group has sponsored a juried art fair, a free concert, and will hold an event at the Elk Rapids Cinema on August 18.
