Baldwin City CLEAR Foundation

Baldwin City CLEAR Foundation Organizer, Founder and Exective Director Kathy Davis

In 1990 a representative from Kansas State University, (University for Mankind, continuing Educational division), challenged leaders within the Baldwin City Community to start an organization that would offer opportunities not presently offered by the existing groups. By doing so the community could receive a three-year depreciating challenge grant to help in covering start-up expenses. The Community, Leisure, Education, Art and Recreation program (C.L.E.A.R.) was established.

A Community interest survey resulted in classes being offered in dancing, cooking, clay construction, youth theatre, wood carving, drawing and computer operations. The C.L.E.A.R. Coaliton actively supported the Summer band concerts, the back to school festival, the Christmas tree lighting and Easter activities. The activity which drew the most interest and participants was the Baldwin City Theatre under the direction of the C.L.E.A.R. Coalition.

The C.L.E.A.R. Coalition was housed under the umbrella of the Baldwin City Recreation Commission until June of 1998. Because of Baldwin City Recreation's limited funding, fear of C.L.E.A.R. Coalition losing its identity as an arts organization, and the limited ability of C.L.E.A.R. Coalition to apply for fine art grants because of the connection with a nearly 100% sport oriented organization, the board began the process of establishing The Baldwin City CLEAR Foundation as a not-for-profit organization.

The advantages were:

Theatre productions didn't fit the homogeneity of the Recreation Commission's activities
The Mission of the foundation was well defined and its achievement easily recognized.
Fund raising and growth opportunities were enhanced
Competition for tax dollars was eliminated.

Mission Statement:
To create and support activities that nurture community fellowship and family unity for the residents of Baldwin City and surrounding areas.

We begin our year by assisting the Chamber of Commerce with the community wide Easter Egg Hunt continuing on with the fall activity of the Summer Fest. This is an opportunity for all groups from the University, Jr. High and High School and community based groups (getting back into the swing of another school year) to perform, make money and enjoy a good old street dance. During the Christmas season we again join the Chamber in a Christmas tree lighting celebration. Santa Claus makes an arrival, The Boy Scouts place, light and monitor a luminary path set up on Baker University and the Baldwin High School band and vocal groups participate by providing the music.

All of these programs focus on multi-generation activity: participate, watch, listen and support. It brings out families and members of a diverse community.

	816 High Street, Baldwin City KS 66006 (785) 594-7440
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