Support Us

WHY THE ARTS MATTER

“The arts are essential to the proper functioning of our society. The arts continue to demonstrate their ability to provide categorical evidence of their impact on social issues that concern virtually every facet of American society. The arts are especially important for our children. Students with an arts rich education:

Have better grade point averages

Score better on standardized tests in reading and math

Have lower dropout rates

Funding for arts education programs in schools is being cut back or eliminated. Many arts organizations have had to make drastic reductions in hours, and offer fewer productions each season.” – Americas for the Arts Action Fund

WAYS TO GIVE

There are several ways to give to River Tree Arts so that we may continue to bring the joy and benefit of the arts to everyone, regardless of age, income or level of experience!

Donate: Donate directly using THIS LINK. Donation checks can also be mailed directly to:
River Tree Arts
35 Western Avenue
Kennebunk, ME 04043
Become a River Tree Arts Member
Become a River Tree Arts Sponsor
Join our Board of Directors
Volunteer at River Tree Arts
Buy a Gift Certificate

Your support can make a difference by providing:

Scholarships to group classes
Scholarships to individual music students
Funds to host affordable art events
Funds for continued operations including salaries, utility bills and maintenance costs
Art equipment, to enhance the level of experience offered the community

Help bring the benefits of theater, art, dance, and music to your children and grandchildren. Now is the time to become involved!

VOLUNTEER

Join the River Tree Arts Board or Volunteer Team and help shape the future of the arts in the Kennebunks.

We are looking for community leaders that enjoy the following outside of their busy careers and retirees that want to give back to our community in the following ways:

Nonprofit Accounting & Finance – Guide responsible budgeting and fiscal oversight, alongside our Treasurer and Executive Director.
Fundraising & Development – Support sustainability through donor cultivation and campaigns. Join our VP Development Chair and Events Team to create events and campaigns that continue RTA’s sustainability and enrichment in the community.
Digital Marketing & Communications – Expand awareness and engagement across our community. Do you have a talent for social media, or have time for blog posting, and or helping create digital content along with the Executive Director and Marketing Team?
Physical Plant Oversight – Help us maintain and plan for improvements to our historic facility.
Event Production – Bring creativity and organization to performances and fundraisers.
Accessing In-Kind or Non-Cash Donations – Help secure materials, goods, and services that enhance our events and programs.
Community Outreach & Off-Site Volunteering – Represent River Tree Arts at local events and strengthen partnerships.
On-Site Volunteering – Assist at events, greet visitors at the front desk, help in classrooms, or support summer camps and special projects.
Volunteer Teaching, Assisting, or Class Audits – Share your creative skills or lend a hand to our teaching artists.

Whether you’re ready to serve on our Board of Directors, join our volunteer team or be a committee member, your involvement helps keep the arts accessible and alive in our community. Interested? Email Executive Director, Sarah Dearing.

High school students are welcome to join our volunteer community, and time spent at River Tree Arts can be used for volunteer requirements at school.

Download the Volunteer Application Here

Download the Volunteer Background Check Authorization Form Here

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

River Tree Arts would like to take the time to thank all of our generous community sponsors who support the programs and events held at the center. Together we are all helping to make a difference in the lives of those in the community by bringing the joy and benefits of music, theater, and visual arts to children and adults, regardless of age, income, or prior experience. THANK YOU! Find out how to become a Sponsor here.

Keith McClelland Fund

The Keith McClelland Fund continues his legacy of supporting music and the arts in our local communities, years after his passing in 2002. A longtime local educator, Mr. McLelland was a beloved music teacher in The Kennebunks for decades. It’s recent gift enabled River Tree Arts to reinvigorate the musical theater program starting in 2025.

Onion Foundation

The Onion Foundation is a private philanthropic foundation based in Maine.
Our mission is to build a more equitable and healthy Maine by deepening the connection of all people to the arts and nature. Website: https://www.onionfoundation.org/

Webhannet Charitable Foundation

The Webhannet Charitable Foundation was established in the Fall of 2011. Its mission is to help individuals and organizations that are in the greatest economic and financial need in Southern Maine.
Since its inception the Foundation has donated over $360,000 to local charities. Donations to the charities have been supported by fund raising events along with generous donations from club members, matching corporate gifts and Friends of Webhannet. Website Link

Tommy McNamara Foundation

The Tommy McNamara Charitable Foundation (TMCF) was founded in 2013 to pay tribute to Tommy McNamara, a young man from the Kennebunk community who passed away tragically in 2012. The TMCF mission is to raise funds to develop and maintain quality recreational and sports facilities for the enjoyment of the youth of the Kennebunk/Kennebunkport community, something Tommy was passionate about. Website: tommymacfoundation.com/

Cuskley & Jones Family Giving Fund

ATX Advisory Services

We are a nimble, full-service consulting firm that works collaboratively with dynamic mid-market businesses to define strategy and deliver on your vision through the alignment of people, process, and technology. Website: atxadvisory.com/

Kennebunk Savings

A community bank since the beginning. 2021 is our 150th year of operation, and we’re taking our show on the road to all of our branch locations to celebrate the employees, customers, and communities that drive and define us. Headquartered in Kennebunk, Maine, KSB has 18 branch and office locations in York County Maine and seacoast New Hampshire. Website: kennebunksavings.com/

Brittain Electric

Daytrip Society

Located in the center of Kennebunkport, Maine – Daytrip Society is a design store that inspires adventure and wanderlust. Founded by native Mainers and ardent daytrippers, the boutique features a unique mix of gifts, home décor, accessories, and locally crafted treasures. Website: daytripsociety.com/

THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS

River Tree Arts would like to take the time to thank all of our generous community partners who support the programs and events held at the center.

Congdon’s Doughnuts

Located in the beautiful seaside town of Wells, Maine, Congdon’s Family Restaurant & Bakery has been serving up world famous doughnuts and delicious breakfast items since 1955. While much has changed since we opened our doors, the family, location, and flavors, are the same as they were when we opened our doors decades ago — and is the reason so many consider us “a must” for anyone traveling to or through southern Maine. Website: congdons.com

The Nonantum Resort

Whether you’re searching for a Maine resort for your family vacation or one of the best wedding venues in Maine, you’ll find it all at The Nonantum Resort. Overlooking the Kennebunk River within walking distance of Dock Square’s shops and restaurants and a half a mile from Colony Beach, the Nonantum is one of the most convenient and accessible family resorts in southern Maine. Website: nonantumresort.com/

York County Community College

At YCCC, we support students at any point along their journey to the perfect career. YCCC annually enrolls nearly 2,000 students in certificate and associate degree programs, continuing education, career and professional development and business training. They are located at 112 College Drive, Wells, 04090. Website: yccc.edu/