Members of the Presque Isle community are likely familiar with some of Aroostook Partners in the Arts’ work. From the monthly “First Friday Art Walks” around town to the Polar Express event held every Christmas, they work in many forms. They are a nonprofit founded in 1996 with a goal of bringing art to the Aroostook County community. They do so not only through hosting a variety of events, but also by giving out art kits to children and grants to area schools.
Art kits for foster children.
There are many members on the board who keep the association running smoothly. They all have their own reasons for joining. “I benefited from the association’s work when I was a teacher and I wanted to give back,” Judy Kenney, a current member of the board, said. She is the longest serving member on the board and has seen many changes over the years. A few years ago, retired people ran most of the association. Now, a number of board members, including the current president, also have careers. “It’s nice to see younger people coming on board.”
Current board president, Jenn Crandall, had similar motivations for joining the association. After feeling as if she had a stable career, she wanted to volunteer and give back to her community. At first, she wasn’t sure how she wanted to. But a friend on the board brought her attention to Partners in the Arts. She attributed her interest in the nonprofit’s mission to her own art education: a minor in art. “The arts are needed for a well-rounded individual and a well-rounded society.”
