One of the best parts of my job is seeing firsthand the impact Callanwolde has on the community. In 2023, for the first time in our history, we hosted 50 students from a Title I school in South DeKalb, Cedar Grove Elementary, for a week of summer camp. The kids received an art education normally reserved for private school children, and the results were amazing. Their elementary art teacher was blown away by the painting and drawing skills the students picked up at camp. Principal Norman Thomas, commented that we helped one normally “wiggly” young man named Zion focus in the classroom. The big news in 2023 was the demand for classes, workshops, and summer camps increased 33 percent and 51 percent when combined with the work we do with underserved communities. Funds raised at the 2022 Gala helped fuel this increase and record donations in 2023 secured the future of even more support for 2024. Callanwolde invested heavily in its Art Scholars programming, supporting over 300 students who qualify for Title I assistance, versus 50 students in 2022. Support for previously homeless communities expanded beyond veterans’ programming to include adults also overcoming substance abuse, families, and deaf and hard of hearing adults. The adults enjoyed several Jazz on the Lawn concerts. Six families were treated to an evening at Winter House—complete with an ornament workshop, s’mores, dinner, and a visit with Santa. Callanwolde established relationships with four new organizations: the DeKalb Community Service Board’s clients with behavioral health needs attended regular dance and painting workshops; Auburn- Atlanta Senior Services’ low-income seniors socialized during a clay workshop; the DeKalb Public Libraries’ volunteers hosted “Storytime” at Winter House; and CaringWorks’ previously homeless adults and families benefited from a variety of workshops and classes.
Jazz on the Lawn celebrated its 24th year and our Spring Concert Series, in its third year, delighted growing audiences. Winter House also celebrated its third year becoming one of Callanwolde’s largest public community engagement events. Thousands of people visited the mansion over nine days enjoying art workshops, concerts, dance performances, artist market, and children’s activities. The new roof on the mansion (funded by DeKalb County) allowed for much needed interior repairs and a fresh coat of paint. The formal gardens, thanks to our Master Gardeners, are stunning. Most visibly, Callanwolde erected a handsome new quartzite sign on Briarcliff Road. On a sad note, Callanwolde lost former Board member, Amanda Kemprowski, in 2023. Amanda served as Treasurer for several years and Board President during the early days of the pandemic. Her dedication to Callanwolde was unsurpassed and she will be missed. I continue to be proud and thankful for the hard work of the Callanwolde Board of Directors, faculty and staff.
ANDREW KEENAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
2023 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 02
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