Chelsea Area Festivals and Events granted 501(c)(3) non-profit status

Courtesy photo.
Courtesy photo. Tree of Life and Dorkestra perform together last summer at Sounds and Sights on Thursday nights.

(Chelsea Update would like to thank Bridget Favre for the information in this story.)

Chelsea Area Festivals and Events, organizer of the Sounds & Sights concert series, announced it is now a 501(c)(3) non-profit, so contributions donated to Chelsea Area Festivals and Events are fully tax-deductible retroactive to Nov. 2, 2011.

“As with all nonprofit events, fundraising is essential for our programs and obtaining 501(c)(3) status is a major milestone for Chelsea Area Festivals and Events,” said committee co-chair Craig Common. “This opens many doors for us to expand fundraising activities and will help us achieve our goals to increase vibrancy for our community while supporting arts education and local artists.”

Courtesy photo. Ashley Rop, Craig Common, Bob Pierce and Bridget Favre.
Courtesy photo. The Sounds and Sights Festival committee Ashley Rop, event coordinator, Craig Common and Bob Pierce, co-chairs and Bridget Favre, marketing coordinator.

Chelsea Area Festivals and Events provides an eclectic mix of performance, festivals, education activities and events through three major annual events held in downtown Chelsea.  Celebrating its 10th season, Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights is one of Michigan’s most popular free open-air concert series and is known for its variety of music from jazz to blue grass to country and indie rocks.

In July, there’s a three-day Sounds & Sights Festival, which includes an open-air art market, a classic car show, children’s activities and a chalk art contest.

In December, Hometown Holidays provides a festive weekend that kicks off the holiday season with many events and activities like gingerbread house decorating, the annual Light Parade, and several holiday concerts.

This month, Chelsea Area Festivals & Events will begin its annual sponsorship drive with several sponsor levels for businesses, individuals and families starting at $100.

Sponsorship packets and information is available at  www.chelseafestivals.com/sponsors/.

The Chelsea Area Festivals & Events Identification Number (EID) is 45-3727723. The IRS letter granting Chelsea Area Festivals and Events its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status is available upon request.

Donation inquiries can be sent to [email protected] or by calling Ashley Rop at 734-474-9178.

Courtesy photo. The Appleseed Collective performing at Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights.
Courtesy photo. The Appleseed Collective performing at Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights.