Frequently Asked Questions About Giving
Why should I give to TCG?
Supporting TCG is the most efficient and far-reaching way to impact the not-for-profit theatre field itself. TCG serves theatre communities that exist on the local, national and international level. Our programs seek to increase the organizational efficiency of our member theatres, cultivate and celebrate the artistic talent and achievements of the field, and promote a larger public understanding of and appreciation for the theatre. Your contribution helps us to self-determine our programming and further our mission to strengthen, nurture and promote the professional not-for-profit American theatre.
Back to top Where does my money go?
At TCG, we are proud to report that over 86% of our income goes directly to programs and services for the field. Your gift bolsters our annual fund which subsidizes a wide range of activities:
Conference and Events: Registration fees only cover a small part of expenses for our many events and professional development programs. TCG relies on contributed income to host such convenings as the TCG National Conference, Fall Forum on Governance, and teleconferences for theatre managers.
Grantmaking and Awards: Your gift supports the administration of grantmaking programs offered in partnership with foundations, corporations and government agencies that disperse more than $2 million per year to the field.
Research and Publications: TCG conducts and publishes the most comprehensive research on the health of the nation’s not-for-profit theatres in the annual Theatre Facts report. Through the online TCG Bulletin, Theatre Profiles database, Fiscal and Education Surveys, and timely legislative alerts, TCG keeps members informed and connected. As the country’s largest independent publisher of dramatic literature with countless Pulitzers, Tonys and other national awards to its credit, TCG Books is committed to its playwrights – and every play published since 1984 remains in print.
Back to top Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Yes! Like our member theatres, TCG is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Your donation is fully tax-deductible.
Back to top Does my individual gift really make a difference?
Yes it does, and increasingly so. Individual donors make up roughly 25% of our annual contributed income. As giving from corporations, foundations and government agencies becomes less flexible and more program-specific, we turn with greater urgency to individual supporters. Your unrestricted support allows us to set our own priorities and control our programming for the benefit of the entire theatre field.
Back to top Can I direct my gift to a particular program?
Some donors choose to direct their individual gifts to specific programs or events. Simply include a note with your contribution to direct your gift to a particular program. Feel free to contact Dan Balkin, Development Manager to discuss specific areas in which you are interested.
Back to top I want to make a regular donation on my credit card. How do I do that?
Please contact any of us in the development department and we can set that up for you.
Back to top Can I give online?
Yes absolutely! Please visit our secure server at Donate Now.
Back to top What about stock transfers/bequests/gifts in honor or memory?
Adrian Budhu, Deputy Director & COO, will be happy to work with you to ensure a smooth process.
Back to top How can I get more involved?
By becoming a member of TCG. You’ll receive 10 individual issues each year of American Theatre magazine and discounts to our other publications such as ArtSearch and the TCG Books list. You will also be eligible for discounted tickets to participating member theatres, and can access “members only” sections of our website.
A major source of support for TCG comes from member theatre trustees. You can help our efforts by encouraging your theatre’s trustees to become involved on the national level through the following TCG programs:
The Trustee Leadership Network: An enhanced form of individual membership available to trustees of our member theatres, the Trustee Leadership Network keeps trustees abreast of the major developments in the American theatre through access to TCG publications. Network members are encouraged to attend the annual Fall Forum on Governance in New York and participate in teleconferences specifically geared to trustees. We encourage all trustees to join the Trustee Leadership Network, get connected and stay informed!
The National Council for the American Theatre: Comprised of leading trustees from member theatres around the country, the National Council for the American Theatre guides TCG’s programs on governance and board development and serves as a “brain trust” for the organization. Members are nominated by the artistic or managing leadership of their theatres, and must make a financial commitment to TCG without compromising their giving to their home theatre. The Council meets three times yearly, including an annual meeting with TCG’s board of directors in New York. Members are invited to participate in TCG committees, grant selection panels and or/advisory groups, and host a trustee breakfast at the annual National Conference. Members are invited to all TCG events, workshops and conferences. The chair of the National Council is Judy Rubin, trustee at Playwrights Horizons and former TCG board member.
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