Traditional Arts in Upstate New York (TAUNY) is in the midst of its annual spring fundraiser, which needs to raise $70,000 by June 30 to support TAUNY’s public education programs.

The fundraiser, which started in May, has already raised $33,130, and TAUNY seeks contributions from the public to make up the remaining $36,870.

Through original research and a wide-range of public programs, the Canton-based nonprofit showcases the cultural traditions of the Adirondack-North Country. TAUNY operates The TAUNY Center on Main Street in downtown Canton. The multi-use facility is a venue for year-round changing exhibitions, workshops, children’s programs, lectures, demonstrations, music jams, concerts, and dances. It is also home to The North Country Folkstore, which promotes and is an outlet for the work of nearly 200 regional artisans and local producers. The TAUNY Center has become a regional tourist destination, with over 10,000 visitors annually. It is also a space for area residents to gather around local interests and concerns.

"TAUNY's mission is to draw attention to the tremendous cultural assets of the North Country, and to create opportunities for more of us who live and visit here to participate in and help conserve a great diversity of traditional activities,” notes TAUNY Executive Director Jill Breit. She adds, “In order to sustain our work, one third of our budget each year must come from local support. With public funding sources such as the NEA and NEH under threat, it is more important than ever that individuals, families, and business join us in sharing the best aspects of local life."

“North Country residents are very generous in support of local organizations that serve our communities. We give what we can, and together our gifts sustain the organizations that make a difference in our communities,” says TAUNY Director of Development Laura Desmond. She acknowledges that to reach its fundraising goal and maintain programming at current levels, the organization will need the support of a broad and diverse base of both loyal and new contributors. She encourages community members to step forward and make a contribution before the June 30th deadline.

Participants in the fundraiser may contribute online (tauny.org), by mail, or by giving in person at The TAUNY Center at 53 Main Street in Canton.