June 26, 2020 9:45 a.m. 

Umpqua Valley Arts is holding a virtual fundraiser through Monday.

During the time the Summer Arts Festival would normally be going on, supporters can help out the non-profit organization which took “a big financial hit” due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival had to be cancelled this year, on what would have been its 52nd anniversary. It is the biggest fundraiser UVA has, normally bringing in over $40,000.

Organizers are hoping to raise at least $5,000 during the online campaign. They are asking residents to contribute at least $5, which is the normal cost of admission. There are higher levels of giving to represent particular areas of the festival, available.

To make a donation, go to: https://www.classy.org/campaign/umpqua-valley-arts-annual-summer-arts-festival-campaign/c289469 or check out the UVA Facebook page.

Interim Executive Director Sandee McGee talked about the fund-raising effort on the Morning Conversation Thursday on News Radio 1240 KQEN. That interview is a KQEN podcast at www.541radio.com.