"The evening of August 14th, 1999 at Ashkenaz was the beginning of my biggest happiness."

-Alexandra Tekerian and Kevork Mourad

To see the full story written by Alexandra, click here

In 2010, Ashkenaz expanded both our programming and our outreach to the community. You may have heard or seen that

• "Ashkenaz Live" went on the air mid-year, making us the first local live music venue to produce a 30-minute weekly television program. Aired every Saturday evening at 9:30 on cable access channel 28 in Berkeley and streaming at betv.org, "Ashkenaz Live" is seen by over 20,000 viewers each week. Showcasing the ever-increasing diversity of performances on our stage provides the community an inspiring glimpse into the heart and soul of Ashkenaz. We are grateful to Berkeley Community Media for partnering with us in this groundbreaking effort.

• Thanks to the Web Design class at Berkeley City College, our current, well-worn website is being given a complete makeover. The new website, set to go live in early 2011, will feature links to all social network outlets and a more accessible calendar of events. The improved, user-friendly navigation will provide our community with much easier access to information about Ashkenaz events, news, history, and more.

• When asked by one of our funders about long-term goals, we responded that we would like to see our diversity increase. Stunned, the funder replied, "How can you get more diverse than Ashkenaz?" Well, we've done it! Our commitment to expanded programming has created an even wider breadth of shows from all over the world. This year has seen some beautiful performances by artists from Kyrgyzstan, Bali, India, Argentina, and Pakistan as well as a greater selection of Reggae, West African, and Cajun/Zydeco music. In addition, our Sunday children's series continue to the delight of kids and their grownups, providing families great afternoons of fun with world music and dance that's truly for all ages.
  

In 2011, we are continuing our commitment to showcasing culturally diverse music and dance at affordable prices in our nurturing and welcoming environment. Furthermore, we hope to begin focusing on upgrading our historical landmark facility. All of our patrons and supporters deserve a building that meets the highest 21st century safety standards. As such, we must begin the work to seismically upgrade the facility. While we very much need to raise money to meet our normal operational expenses, we are also obliged to seek increased donations in order to help fund preliminary seismic work.

Because our need is so great, we ask everyone to dig deep and give generously. Therefore, we are launching The Ashkenaz Alliance. Simply put, it is a series of giving levels that provide the donor with tangible rewards. Here's what you can receive:

Ashkenaz Superstar – $5,000
Admission for you and a guest to all shows* for 3 years

Ashkenaz Rockstar – $2,500
Admission for you and a guest to all shows* for 1 year

Ashkenaz Ally – $1,500
Admission to all shows* for 1 year

Ashkenaz Sponsor – $1,000
6 free admissions to any show* plus all Ashkenaz-produced CD's,
a T-shirt, and an Ashkenaz water bottle

Ashkenaz Friend – $500
All Ashkenaz-produced CD's, a T-shirt, and an Ashkenaz water bottle

* Excluding benefits/fundraisers

Ashkenaz continues to feel the effects of the economic downturn of the last few years. In 2010 we experienced reduced attendance, reduced foundation grants, and an overall loss of donated revenue. We realize we are asking everyone to help at greater levels than ever before. If participating at the Ashkenaz Alliance levels is a hardship, please give what you can. All gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Donate to Ashkenaz

Mail a check to:
Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center
1317 San Pablo Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94702

Credit card donations may be made by:

• Clicking here
  
• Mailing your credit card information to the above address
  Be sure to include your name as written on the credit card, address, telephone number, credit card number, and expiration date. We accept Visa and MasterCard.
  

• Calling Sean Hodge, Interim Operations Manager
  510-525-5099, ext. 3#

At Ashkenaz, use the donation box at the front desk to contribute by cash or check. You may use the donation envelopes located at the café and in the back hallway to make donations by credit card, or for donations for which you require a receipt for tax purposes.

Matching Gifts

Many companies will match gifts from employees, employee's partners, and retirees. A match will increase your gift and further spread the word about Ashkenaz. Please ask your employer whether your company has a matching gifts program. All gifts are acknowledged with a thank you letter outlining your tax-deductible contribution.

Donate Your Car to Ashkenaz

Eliminate the hassle of selling your own used car by donating it to Ashkenaz. You have the satisfaction of making a contribution to Ashkenaz while receiving a tax deduction and saving yourself time and trouble. Just call toll free 1-866-273-5898 to learn more about the program and to donate your car, motorcycle, recreational vehicle or boat.