900 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-258-2700 www.augustwilsoncenter.

org

2012 Annual Fund

October 2012 Ms. Jane Doe 123 Main Street Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Dear Jane, As I reflect on the accomplishments of the August Wilson Center for African American Culture, I think of trusted donors like you, who so generously give to our mission of presenting, preserving, interpreting, celebrating and shaping the art, culture and history of African Americans utilizing the rich history, legacy and culture of African Americans from Western Pennsylvania as a foundation. I would like to personally thank you for your contribution of $50.00 to our 2011 Annual Fund. Your gift is reflected in every note of music, step of dance, and piece of art that grace the halls of our center every day of the year. Today we are able to enrich the lives of our citizens because of a dream that began sixteen years ago, when Pittsburgh NAACP President Tim Stevens envisioned an African American museum in the heart of Pittsburgh. Ten years after Stevens shared his vision, the city broke ground at the corner of Liberty Avenue and 10th Street in Downtown Pittsburgh. And in September 2009, the city celebrated the grand opening of The August Wilson Center for African American Culture, a gleaming 65,000 square-foot architectural jewel anchored in the heart of the cultural district with performance areas for dance, music and theatre and two exhibit halls housing five art galleries. A dream had become a reality. As a trusted donor, you well know the contributions the August Wilson Center for African American Culture has made to the city of Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities. Our year-round programs of dance, music, theatre and art exhibits have made a real impact on Western Pennsylvanias cultural landscape. Our acclaimed dance troupe, the August Wilson Dance Ensemble, was named 25 to Watch by Dance Magazine. Our Affrilachia! Where Im From exhibit featured 50 works of art, all exploring the culture of African Americans born in the Appalachian region. Pittsburgh Jazz Ensemble enchanted audiences with musical performances featuring celebrated jazz trumpeter Sean Jones. Our space is an area where families from all walks of life can reflect and learn. Its a place that allows expression and growth. Its a place that celebrates our

Board of Directors Andr Kimo Stone Guess President & CEO Aaron A. Walton, Chairperson David McL. Hillman Vice Chairperson Mark S. Lewis, CPA, Treasurer Dr. Mona Generett, Ph.D., Secretary Members: Robert Agbede Curtis Aiken Brian Bronaugh Tyra Butler Stephan C. Davis, SPHR Nanette DeTurk Velma Monteiro-Tribble Peggy Morrison Outon Kimberly Ayers Shariff Darrell E. Smalley, CMI Bonnie VanKirk Mary Winston Ex Officio Members: Mulugetta Birru, Ph.D. Oliver W. Byrd Yvonne Cook Valerie McDonald Roberts Sala Udin Nancy Washington, Ph.D

past and cultivates our future. At the August Wilson Center for African American Culture we entertain, enlighten, educate, createwe dream! And our dreams are kept alive by donors like you, whose contributions make up 60% of our operating budget each year. This year for our Annual Fund we ask that you consider increasing your contribution. Your tax-deductible donation makes a direct impact on your community. This year, we are thrilled to tell you that every donation received by December 31, 2012 will be matched by the generosity of an anonymous supporter. Keep the dream alive in our community. Contribute as much as you can today. You may use the pledge card enclosed or donate online at www.augustwilsoncenter.org. Thank you,

Kate Safin
Kate Safin Executive Director

P.S.: The August Wilson Center for African American Culture has accomplished so much in the three short years since weve opened our doors. Your contribution will ensure a bright future. We cant wait to share more music, dance, theatre and art with community members like you!