WALDOBORO — The Waldo Theatre announces a gift of $2,500 received from The First in support of its community arts and education programs. The First has signed on at the Sustainer level as part of the theatre’s Business Partners and Sponsors Campaign.

“I can’t imagine a better way to kick-off our Business Partnership Campaign,” said Susan Hodder, The Waldo’s Executive Director, in a news release. “The First recognized early on what the vision for The Waldo could mean to the community, and they’ve been supportive as donors and event sponsors ever since. We are so grateful for their confidence in us.”

The Waldo Theatre is a community-driven nonprofit organization that offers a wide range of live performances, films, and classes for youth and adults. Their mission includes a commitment to ensuring that all members of the community have access to the arts, regardless of means.

The Waldo’s ability to bring in big name acts like Judy Collins or Henry Rollins to Waldoboro and still keep ticket prices low has surprised many, according to The Waldo.

“But the nascent operation’s impressive growth has been heavily reliant on the tremendous efforts of a very small staff, supported by a team of skilled and dedicated volunteers,” said the release.

“We’ve proven that it can be done, and that there’s demand for this type of programming in the community,” said Hodder, “but we must also have a sustainable business model. We rely on partnerships with local businesses like The First to provide cash or in-kind products and services that can help offset some of our program costs. And there’s value for those businesses in terms of advertising exposure and good will when their customers see their brands aligned with ours. It’s a relationship that benefits the business, the theatre, and the community.”

Details regarding The Waldo’s Business Partners and Sponsors program are available on their website thewaldotheatre.org/businesses, or by calling the theatre at 207-975-6490.