"For the past 11 years, AiM has shared its mission but now we want to tell the other half of our story which is all about the accomplishments of our participants and supporters through the work of AiM. After all, artists and audiences are why we exist, "  Paige Holmes, Managing Director of AiM.

Arts in McNairy's Capital Campaign is entering its second phase now that the Latta Visitor's and Cultural Center is finished and operational.   AiM needs $30,000 to reach its capital campaign goal of $50,000 by December of 2014. "Our focus for the future is to maintain operations of the Latta facility and continue to provide creative opportunities and performances for the citizens of McNairy County," said Fundraising and Development Chairman, Charles Lee, Jr. 

"Arts in McNairy benefits our community in multiple ways," said Dr. Shawn Pitts, Founder and Honorary Board member.  A few statistics on the website explain:

 According to estimates from the Americans for the Arts, at the $50,000 operating level, AiM annually would bring:

• 3.3 new jobs for McNairy Countians
• $117,410 in sales revenues for local businesses in addition to ticket sales
• $70,401 in new household income and
• $10,527 in to the local and state tax coffers. 

Holmes adds that "Audience members spend an average of $24.00 per visit shopping, eating and buying gas in McNairy County before and after arts events. AiM also is committed to spending its dollars locally to produce our many projects as well."

"Ticket prices do cover many costs for AiM" explained Pitts. "However, these ticket prices are set for affordability not profitability.  AiM is committed to keeping participation and ticket costs low so every person who wants to participate in or attend an AiM event can. Donations from individuals, small businesses, grants and corporations are key to making AiM affordable for the long term."

Arts in McNairy's future plans include a full season of theater productions, community music event , a new concert/professional performance series and movie nights in conjunction with the McNairy Regional Alliance. "We are looking at ways for our patrons to buy their tickets on-line and in advance of a show as well. In the next three months, AiM will also announce more collaborations with community partners in McNairy County as well as statewide organizations and businesses," Holmes said. "We have high hopes for this next capital funding phase for AiM. We know that there is no shortage of talent and support in McNairy County to continue the AiM mission."