(SUMMIT, NJ) -- The Summit Foundation recently presented the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (VACNJ) with a grant award of $20,000 for general operating expenses. This grant was part of The Summit Foundation’s biannual grant cycle which saw $409,000 in grants awarded to 21 local non-profit organizations.

“The VACNJ offers a longstanding community to explore, learn, and grow through art,” said Dana Turk, Summit Foundation Trustee. “Their robust classes, exhibitions, and community outreach programs welcome artists at all stages and contribute greatly to our city’s vibrancy.”  

“The general operating support made possible by this grant from The Summit Foundation will enable the Art Center to put the funds where they are needed most, which is particularly helpful as we’ve remained closed under state orders due to COVID-19,” said VACNJ Executive Director Melanie Cohn. “The Art Center is committed to serving its home community of Summit, and we look forward to reopening July 6 for the first time in three months for both camps and classes with the help of The Summit Foundation.”

For over 85 years, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey has been exclusively dedicated to viewing, making, and learning about contemporary art. Recognized as a leading non-profit arts organization, the Art Center’s renowned Studio School, acclaimed exhibitions, and educational outreach initiatives serve thousands of youth, families, seniors, and people with special needs every year.

The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is located at 68 Elm Street in Summit, NJ. The building is currently closed to the public due to the global pandemic but will reopen on July 6 for summer camp and art classes. All gallery spaces will be closed for the summer. Major support for the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is provided in part by the Peter R. & Cynthia K. Kellogg Foundation; the Wilf Family Foundations; and Art Center members and donors.