News Release
WARSAW — Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts ignited the community’s generosity last night, raising $33,058 in just one evening during its second annual year-end gala, Great Performances, Greater Purpose.
The event marked one of the most successful single-night fundraising efforts in the organization’s recent history.
Hosted by Outreach and Education Director Kira Lace Hawkins and Communications and Donor Relations Coordinator Sam Engle, the evening celebrated the impact and legacy of Wagon Wheel while rallying support for its future.
“It’s overwhelming to think that your own community would come together in a single evening to do something like that,” said Engle. “As a nonprofit organization with a 70-year legacy, nights like these remind us why this place matters. It’s a powerful moment of clarity for me and for the people who faithfully and fiercely advocate for Wagon Wheel’s mission and for this community’s need for the arts.”
During the evening, every Wagon Wheel program shared the same stage in one unified showcase, featuring performances by Wagon Wheel Professional Theatre, Wagon Wheel Community Theatre, Wagon Wheel Junior, Wagon Wheel Conservatory, and Symphony of the Lakes. The night also highlighted Wagon Wheel’s national impact through video messages from alumni currently performing on Broadway in shows including Wicked, Hamilton, The Book of Mormon, and Ragtime.
The organization will continue its push toward the $100,000 year-end fundraising goal through December 31. Funds raised directly support Wagon Wheel’s artistic programming, education initiatives, and its commitment to providing transformative arts experiences for the region.
