ARTZ Philadelphia

ARTZ Philadelphia Launches “Fund for the Future” as National Funding Gets Cut and Demand Grows for Dementia Support and Community Care

ARTZ Philadelphia has launched its Fund for the Future Campaign, a three-year initiative to raise $500,000 in support of its mission to enrich the lives of people living with dementia and their care partners through arts engagement, connection, and community.

The campaign began with a $75,000 lead gift in October 2025, leaving $425,000 to be raised through leadership giving, multi-year pledges, foundation support, corporate partnerships, and community donations.

“This generous gift reflects belief in both our mission and our future,” said Susan Shifrin, Founder and Executive Director. “Families facing dementia need connection, hope, and opportunities for joy. This campaign will help us serve more people while strengthening our long-term sustainability.”

For almost fifteen years, ARTZ Philadelphia has served families across the region through museum programs, creative workshops, performances, caregiver support, and community partnerships that bring dignity, joy, and meaningful engagement to those affected by dementia. The organization was recently awarded Gold and Silver awards in the Philadelphia Inquirer‘s “Philly Favorites” categories of Arts & Culture Event and Alternative Therapies respectively, reflecting the growing importance of community-based arts engagement in supporting people living with dementia, their care partners, and older adults seeking meaningful connection and reduced isolation,

As government funding has been slashed for research in healthcare and other beneficial programs, nearly 7 million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related conditions, underscoring the growing need for innovative community-based supports.

Robert Grabel, who joined the board in 2025 and serves as the Fund For the Future Chair, has said: “ARTZ Philadelphia brings together art, care, families, and people living with dementia in ways that reduce isolation and restore dignity. Supporting this campaign means investing in a model our community needs now more than ever.”

Campaign priorities include:

  • Expanding direct programming for individuals living with dementia and care partners
  • Increasing access through partnerships with medical and teaching centers, neighborhood hubs, senior communities, and cultural institutions
  • Growing awareness of the power of arts-centered engagement across the Greater Philadelphia region
  • Strengthening staffing, technology, fundraising systems, and long-term sustainability

Those interested in learning more or supporting the campaign may contact:
Susan Shifrin
Executive Director, ARTZ Philadelphia
shifrin@artzphilly.org
610-721-1606

To visit our “Fund for the Future” webpage: Click here

About ARTZ Philadelphia

ARTZ Philadelphia is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of people living with dementia and their care partners through creative arts engagement, education, and community connection.