Press release from LEAF Global Arts:
Dear LEAF Family & Friends,
As you begin reading this statement, we invite you to first take a moment to turn on a song from one of your favorite LEAF artists. Take that moment to feel gratitude that moves your soul, touches your heart, and guides you forward with hope & inspiration when that first note hits your ears.
During this unprecedented world phenomenon, LEAF Global Arts is drawing upon the beauty and healing power of 25 years of hosting a world gathering built on friends, family, tradition, arts, culture and MUSIC to face the gravity of how we move forward together. In accordance with the Social Distancing mandates issued by NC Governor Roy Cooper, safety measures implemented by the CDC, and the health-centric mindset embraced by our staff & board – the Spring LEAF Festival, originally scheduled for May 14-17, 2020 is officially shifting to combine with our Fall Festival taking place Oct 22-25, 2020 – for a special 50th Festival Celebration honoring all we hold dear about our Global Community.
At the onset of this unprecedented situation, we were hopeful that the crisis would have stabilized by mid-April and LEAF would be able to welcome our incredible community of families, members, artists, vendors, and staff to reconnect for a new chapter together. Yet it appears that the world needs to take this deep breath together, honoring the need for the utmost safety and caution before reuniting. As we look across the rapidly changing landscape at events, festivals, artists, and creatives across this nation – our hearts go out with profound empathy for all those who have been severely impacted by Covid-19. Know that we are here alongside you as family on this journey together… and recognize this situation is bigger than any of us. Please remain steadfast in supporting your friends, family, and community the very best you can, so we make it through together with strength and resilience.
Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders:
Per our ticket policy, as a Non-Profit, LEAF is not able to process refunds. Your understanding is deeply appreciated during this very challenging and unprecedented event. All May Tickets, Vehicle Camping, Cabin Rentals & WeX (Work Exchange) applications will automatically transfer into October 2020 Tickets by 3/31. Yet if this does not work for you, we have 3 options:
Receive Credit for a future event per our credit policy (Note: All standard fees will be waived). Your LEAF Credit will be valid for 3 years, and may be transferred to another person. Email:info@theLEAF.org your LEAF credit request.
As a non-profit organization, LEAF Membership is the KEY to supporting over 12,000 youth globally through our Cultural Arts Education programs. Please consider having your ticket purchase go towards becoming a LEAF Member or elevating your current membership. Email: Jordan at engagement@theLEAF.org
Make your ticket into a tax-deductible donation. The loss of the Spring Festival major event will have a tremendous financial impact on the LEAF Global Arts Organization. It is essential for a significant portion of our operations, and unfortunately our longtime secure Rainy Day Fund had to be put into action. Donations will be key to ensuring the long term sustainability of our organization. LEAF is a non-profit 501c3 organization. Email: Jordan atengagement@theLEAF.org
Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders:
We have adjusted our traditional WeX (formerly Volunteer) Application Policy. We will transfer all current Spring Festival Applications to this year’s Fall Festival. We will reach back out in June to reconfirm schedules and availability. *IF* you are not able to attend this year’s Fall Festival, October 22-25, you may transfer your application fee to either of the 2021 Festivals by emailing WeX@theLEAF.org.
When the world settles, we will stay in touch to let you know when the LEAF Global Arts experience will reopen downtown, and when LEAF Schools & Streets classes and workshops are able to resume (the kids and parents will be ready!). LEAF International programs are each following the protocol of their country. In this time of uncertainty, especially for artists, LEAF has taken the extraordinary step of committing to paying hourly LEAF teaching artists and International Culture Keepers, and creating opportunities that they can make up any loss of income during the coronavirus school and center shutdown. In this crucial time, LEAF Membership and Endowment allows us to make this important commitment for the team that is directly working with the youth who are the future Global Citizens. LEAF Teaching Artists and International Culture Keepers are essential in carrying out the mission of LEAF Global Arts in our neighborhood and across the world. Any additional donations to support this commitment are most welcome.
In holding space together, on the weekend of May 14-17, 2020, the LEAF team will host a music experience virtually from LEAF Global Arts in downtown AVL to share some music & culture we love with all of you at home. In the coming weeks, we will share social media updates with music, art, insights, and wisdom from artists, culture keepers, and creatives from all throughout the world to keep the fire of inspiration burning in the hearts of all we are connected to as a community. LEAF is so much more than just a festival, we are a world family and we ask that you keep us involved in a dialog with how we can best show up for each other during this unprecedented time. We thank you all so much for your ongoing support and understanding. It is our hope to see you soon at LEAF Global Arts in downtown AVL, and so look forward to welcoming you back with big hugs (virtual and real) at Lake Eden for our big 50th Festival in the Fall. Safe and healthy journeys to you and your families.
With So Much LEAF Love, Gratitude and Compassion
as we all stand TOGETHER,LEAF Board President Pete Roe, Executive Director Jennifer Pickering, Co-Festival Directors Ehren Cruz & Leigh Maher, and the LEAF Team & Family
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