2023-24 Annual Report
President’s Report
Hello everyone. I have seen the term, one more turn around the sun to describe birthdays, etc. It seems appropriate here to use it as we find ourselves one year further down the road. This year’s report will follow the same messaging that I reported last season. Our Board of Directors and the KSA still finds itself in a precarious financial time. Our costs for continuing to operate are steadily increasing and our revenue is not keeping pace. That said, we are ever optimistic as we have renewed energy and hope in our Development Committee and the great work they are doing with Elena Baker as Director of Development. I am sure many of you have now had some interaction with her. We are working to better strategize and become better, and more focused at our fundraising efforts to ensure we can continue to be here.
Our season has essentially just begun, and the reports are more than positive about the concerts, attendance, and the overall quality of the program!
We are again in negotiations with the Kingston Symphony. Our contract was a one-year extension given timing and other factors. So now we are trying to solidify a longer-term contract that will provide stability for all. As always it is a balance between fiscal diligence and ensuring a reasonable outcome for all parties. I hope with more dialogue we can come to an agreement that is a win-win for all of us.
I want to acknowledge the members of our Board of Directors and their commitment to helping us navigate these interesting times. We went through the process of developing a new Strategic Plan. With this now in place and the key pillars that we need to focus on, we hope that we can stay true to the process and help steward the KSA to sustainability. Again, a shout out to those participating on the Development Committee, and added thanks as this is a critical time in our history and your efforts and initiatives will be needed.
Our constituent groups are reporting good successes and an active concert schedule. I encourage all of you to try to take some of them in.
Our volunteers continue to rise above and beyond in their fundraising efforts. At the most recent donor event I spoke about how they truly are the backbone of our organization. They tirelessly, and continually put the KSA first, and day in and day out work diligently to support the cause. I will also acknowledge here the passing of our dear friend and long-time volunteer, and supporter of the KSA, David Notman. A true friend, person and wonderful human being, who gave all his time and himself to the KSA. Andrea has mine and all our deepest condolences. We will all miss him.
Andrea Haughton, given the schedule she has had, continues to move the KSA forward. She and our staff are plugged in and keep the ball rolling so to speak. With grant applications, donor outreach, coordinating concerts, etc. it is a never-ending job and we would not be here or be functioning without their contributions and dedication.
As noted, we are in challenging financial times. We have a steep hill to climb in terms of trying to find alternative fundraising models and a wider outreach to our members and community to grow and strengthen our financial base. Of course, we could not operate at any level without those who donate, subscribe, and attend our concerts. We are always grateful for your contributions. We are fortunate we have some reserves we can draw from. A safety net from previous benefactors. However, we also know that these reserves are there for a reason. For our rainy days, if you will. These certainly are times when they are needed, and we are grateful for them. But it underscores again the need for furthering our donations and finding ways to attract new financial streams to our cause.
On a final note, I do know we have incredible, dedicated, wonderful people involved with this organization. I know that together, we will ensure our success in the weeks, months, and years to come!
Luca Andolfatto, President
