Sisters Folk Festival receives Roundhouse Foundation grant

Sisters Folk Festival Inc. received a grant award from the Roundhouse Foundation for $11,500 to continue current programming, events, and expand the position of new staff member Kerani Mitchell.

“Kerani is a great addition to our team. She’s done an incredible job of working with our volunteers, and we’re thrilled to be able to expand her role,” said Managing Director Ann Richardson.

Mitchell, a former Americana Project (AP) student, is working in the schools creating a strong connection between SFF and the Americana Project by coordinating volunteer and performance opportunities for students. She will also take an active role in the production of the Americana Song Academy for Youth and other related activities.

“I’m having fun working with Ann and learning how the organization is run behind the scenes, while also having the opportunity to work with AP students. Interacting with the youth has allowed me to see how the AP program has expanded in the last 10 years. My goal is to invite more students to be involved in our community, both as performers and volunteers. There are many ways to give back, and my hope is that more students will find that our organization and the arts offer opportunities for all to do just that.”

Programs like SFF’s Americana Project, which teaches music and arts education in the Sisters School District, have benefited greatly from the Roundhouse Foundation. The grant also supports My Own Two Hands, a fundraising event for the Americana Project, the Americana Song Academy for Youth and other educational programming of SFF.

The Roundhouse Foundation was established in Sisters in 2002 to encourage community enrichment and economic development through the arts in Central Oregon. “We are so grateful to work with an organization with a mission so similar to our own,” said Development Director Katy Yoder. “The Oregon arts scene has grown and thrived because of their generosity.”

To learn more about Sisters Folk Festival Inc. programs and events call 541-549-4979 or visit http://www.sistersfolkfestival.org/