Meet our Members
What?
Scottsdale League for the Arts™ is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, volunteer organization of accomplished men and women who support artists, art programs and arts education through fund-raising and special events. In order to offer continuous value and assistance to the arts, the League awards all funds raised to a variety of art focused organizations through a grant program.
When?
Founded in 1978, Scottsdale League for the Arts™ began by primarily distributing its funds to the Scottsdale Cultural Council in support of capital improvements of the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. However, in 1992 the League created a grant program in order to further support the arts. Since the grant program began, the League has contributed more than $3,500,000 to various art programs. In 2010 alone, 53 art organizations received more than $302,000 through the Scottsdale League for the Arts competitive grant program.
Why?
Scottsdale League for the Arts™ believes in the importance and power of the arts. Creative outlets offer a wide range of benefits to all, from those who imagine and construct to those who simply admire. The community at large also benefits from these programs which offer the opportunity for cultural growth and knowledge. By hosting a wide spectrum of fundraising events, Scottsdale League for the Arts™ helps numerous arts programs survive and thrive throughout Maricopa County.
How?
Scottsdale League for the Arts™ hosts events throughout the year from simple meet-and-greet socials to a week-long epicurean extravaganza for nearly 40,000 people.
The League’s largest and most prestigious fund-raising event, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival™, is the longest continually running festival of its kind in the United States. Held every April, this series of events is considered one of the nation’s premier culinary experiences.
The Festival, supported by more than 100 outstanding restaurants, resorts and caterers, is recognized as one of the finest and most unique events in the country. Events include once-in-a-lifetime dinner experiences like the Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner, chic cocktail celebrations like the much anticipated Eat, Drink and Be Pretty Party, and of course the Festival’s signature two-day event, the Great Arizona Picnic™ . This Picnic is one of Scottsdale’s most notable traditions complete with tastings from dozens of restaurants, cooking demonstrations and appearances from nationally acclaimed chefs.
All League Members are active in at least one Festival committee to ensure event success and maximize proceeds for charitable contribution. In addition to committee involvement, members attend monthly meetings for overall Festival planning and progress updates as well as monthly social events.
If you are interested in becoming a member of Scottsdale League for the Arts™ or would like more information, please contact the League office by emailing info@scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org or calling (480) 945-7193.