Waynesboro kicked off the holiday season with its annual Winter Fest on Small Business Saturday (November 29), giving residents a chance to explore downtown shops and support local merchants. But for one longtime arts institution, the day unfolded far differently than planned.
The Shenandoah Valley Art Center suffered a major setback just days before Thanksgiving when a plumbing issue caused significant water damage inside its main gallery. Executive Director Piper Groves said water poured across the original 19th-century flooring, leaving the space in need of extensive repairs.
Although none of the artwork on display was harmed, the building itself — completed in 1890 and restored only two and a half years ago — now requires major work. Groves said the thought of repairing the historic floors is “devastating,” adding that the staff had hoped the restoration would last far longer before any major issues.
Because the gallery cannot host most of its regular programming during repairs, the setback poses a financial challenge for the nonprofit. The center is now leaning on community support to get through the disruption.
Groves emphasized the center’s mission and the importance of local backing: “We’re a nonprofit arts organization, and community is at the heart of everything we do. It means the world to see people come together for us right now.”
Supporters can donate to the center through its GoFundMe page.
SOURCE: WHSV3