Matching campaign could bring up to $150,000 in cost-saving measures to Legacy Theater

CARTHAGE, Ill. — A matching challenge campaign for The Legacy Theater Foundation could raise up to $150,000 to help pay for cost-saving improvements to the theater in Carthage.

The campaign was announced at the theater June 22 during the Twitty and Lynn concert. Three donors from the area have each pledged $25,000 for a matching fund totaling $75,000. The campaign runs until Dec. 31, with any amount donated to the theater in the next six months doubled by the matching fund.

Money received from this campaign is designated for several cost-saving measures such as solar energy panel installation and upgrades for digital and sound equipment. Plans are already under way for solar panels to be installed on the roof of the theater. This system should result in an annual savings of several thousand dollars.

The community supported a capital campaign in 2019, raising funds for basic lights and sound equipment. The theater continues to rent some of the equipment needed for shows. Additional sound equipment and digital upgrades are needed to provide the quality of sound and experience expected by performers and patrons who come to the theater.

Legacy Theater Foundation board chairman Doug Groth is one of the three matching fund donors. Groth is urging all supporters of the theater to use this opportunity to double the impact of their giving.

In a press release, Groth said, “Imagine the difference you can make with your contribution during this challenge. A gift of $50 will become $100. A gift of $1,000 will become $2,000.“

Connie Golob Dyer of West Point, Iowa, is another of the donors making a $25,000 pledge. Dyer has been committed to the mission of the Legacy Theater since 2017 when she joined the Legacy Theater Foundation Board and its fundraising committee.

“The board and volunteers for the Legacy Theater are constantly working toward our goal of providing outstanding performances, making the theater in Carthage a destination for quality, live entertainment,” Dyer said.

The third donor wishes has asked to remain unidentified.

“These pledges show confidence and commitment to the mission of the Legacy Theater,” said Joy Swearingen, fundraising committee chairman for the Legacy Theater board. “They challenge patrons and friends of the theater to give at the highest level they can. Let’s meet this challenge.”

The Legacy Theater Foundation, organized in 2016, brings a wide variety of live performers to the region.

Donations can be sent to Box 34, Carthage, Ill., 62321. Donations can be made by going online to www.thelegacytheater.com and clicking on “Donate Today” under the “Donors” tab.

For more information about the matching challenge, contact Tom at the theater (217-357-9479) or director@thelegacytheater.com.

The Legacy Theater Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.