“Since 2018, Friends of Pontardawe Arts Centre have been at the heart of keeping our cultural home vibrant and future-ready. Through fundraising, advocacy, and community spirit, they’ve helped secure new facilities, supported youth projects, and brought people together through unforgettable events. Their achievements reflect the power of local people working together to protect and grow the arts for everyone.”
Our aim is to support the artistic and community activities undertaken at Pontardawe Arts Centre. Promoting public interest and education in the arts by supporting and assisting the provision of facilities at the Centre. We seek to provide practical and financial support and volunteering opportunities for the Centre, an important cultural, educational and recreational community hub.
Key Achievements of Friends of Pontardawe Arts Centre (FoPAC)
- Strong Community Launch (2018): Over 300 people attended the launch event, demonstrating immediate local support and commitment to sustaining the Arts Centre.
- Fundraising Success: In just a few years, FoPAC has raised over £27,000 to support the Centre’s activities and infrastructure.
- New Cinema Investment: Their advocacy and fundraising helped secure funding for a new cinema installation, expanding the Centre’s cultural offer and accessibility.
- Upgraded Equipment: FoPAC funded a new sound system and sound desk, ensuring professional-quality performances and events.
- Youth Engagement: They supported a dedicated youth project, encouraging young people to participate in arts and culture.
- Community Events: From music nights to street festivals, FoPAC has organised and supported events that bring people together and celebrate local talent.
- Creative Initiatives: Projects like the Pop-Up Piano decoration workshops gave the community hands-on creative experiences and enhanced the Centre’s welcoming atmosphere.
- Socio-econonmic research: Secured funding from the government’s Shared Propsperity Funding to produce indepth research in to the financial and social impact the Arts Centre brings to Pontardawe.
- Partnership Grants: Collaborations with organisations such as Awel Co-op, which awarded a £10,000 grant, have strengthened the Centre’s financial sustainability.
- Volunteer Power: FoPAC is entirely volunteer-run, with members contributing skills in marketing, social media, finance, and event planning, ensuring the Centre thrives without heavy overheads.
- Cultural Advocacy: Beyond fundraising, FoPAC has actively lobbied for support, promoting the Centre’s programme and safeguarding its long-term sustainability.
- Consistent Governance: The charity has maintained a strong record of timely reporting and compliance with the Charity Commission, reflecting transparency and accountability
If you like what we’ve achieved you can become a Friend for just £10 a year. You might want to get involved with us in trying to shape the future of Pontardawe Arts Centre.
Friends of Pontardawe Arts Centre 