DOTHAN, Ala. – Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is the recipient of an award totaling $33,100 from the Michelin North America Charity Golf Tournament, held annually in Greenville, S.C. The 2020 tournament was held virtually in October and raised more than $330,000, with proceeds supporting 10 charities in communities where Michelin employees live and work.
This is the second of three awards the Museum will receive from the annual tournament, with 2019′s proceeds to WMA totaling $77,469.
During 2020′s virtual event, Michelin business partners and suppliers tuned in to hear an update from the company’s leadership team and present charitable contributions, according to a news release from the company. Since 1989, the charity golf tournament has raised over $9 million dollars.
“Michelin appreciates the continued support for our charity partners, especially this year when help is needed more than ever before,” said Steve Jahries, vice president of purchasing for Michelin North America. “Although our tournament looked quite different than in previous years, we are grateful for our network of partners that have continued to make an impact on our communities through this event for more than 30 years.”
WMA’s portion of the proceeds will be used to support the Museum’s mission to inspire lifelong learning through the visual arts for Wiregrass residents and visitors. This charitable gift will allow WMA to continue to respond to the ongoing disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as strengthen operations, existing programs, and special projects at WMA.
In addition to its current exhibition and program schedule, the Museum will promote broader access and equity to the arts across the community, and will improve visitor experiences through technology. WMA will also use funds to continue its commitment to supporting pre-K-12 public education and providing lifelong learning opportunities for all residents of the Wiregrass.
“It’s incredibly valuable to receive multi-year operating support from organizations like Michelin. The kind of predictability this provides an organization allows us to remain flexible to the needs of the public, and resilient against disruptions,” said Dana-Marie Lemmer, executive director of WMA. “Support like this enables the museum to continue services without disruption.”
