Fox Gives awards $500,000 in grants to 12 Georgia venues

Fox Gives, the charitable arm of the Atlanta Fox Theatre, announced 12 new grants totaling $500,000 on Sunday. The funds will support historic theaters and cultural landmarks in Georgia. The program is now in its 18th year. Since its inception, it has distributed over $6.2 million to venues in Georgia and the Southeast.

Eight organizations will receive Preservation and Facilities Grants. These awards fund community projects aimed at preservation and facilities improvements. Four other groups will receive Technical Services Grants. These provide access to professional experts for strategic planning and operational needs.

Allan Vella, president and CEO of the Fox Theatre, said the organization’s history shows the value of investing in venues. “As we approach our 100th anniversary, we’re proud to carry that legacy forward through Fox Gives,” Vella said. The grants are designed to address immediate needs and advance long-term projects.

The Colored Memorial Building Auditorium in Brunswick will receive $75,000 for interior and roof repairs. The GEM Theatre in Calhoun will use $56,000 to replace its HVAC system. The Imperial Theatre in Augusta received $23,500 for backstage rigging upgrades. The Martin Theatre in Douglas will use $40,000 for historic interior repairs.

In Atlanta, the Plaza Theatre Foundation will receive $75,000 to restore the 1939 building’s façade. Theatrical Outfit in Atlanta will use $36,500 to upgrade stage systems at the Balzer Theater. The Thomasville Center for the Arts will receive $65,000 to restore a terra cotta roof on the East Side School building.

The Sautee Nacoochee Center in Sautee Nacoochee will use $25,000 for lighting and sound upgrades in its gymnasium. Technical Services grants go to the Georgia Chitlin’ Circuit Heritage Trail project for $25,000. The City of Winterville will receive $25,000 to create a 10-year strategic plan for Marigold Auditorium.

The Morton Theatre in Athens will use $20,000 to develop a strategic plan. The Southface Institute in Atlanta will receive $34,000 for the GoodUse Grant Program. This funds energy audits for multiple historic theaters. Earlier this year, Fox Gives awarded $500,000 each to the DeSoto Theatre in Rome and the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium.