Business Details
Building the Mid-Columbia Performing Arts Center
Arts Center Task Force (ACTF) is a dedicated nonprofit organization working to establish the Mid-Columbia Performing Arts Center (MCPAC) in Richland, Washington. Since our inception, we have focused on fostering artistic expression and innovation while enhancing cultural access and economic vitality for all ages in the Tri-Cities region. Our team combines decades of experience in arts management, community engagement, and nonprofit operations to advance this transformative project. We collaborate closely with local arts organizations, including Mid-Columbia Mastersingers, Mid-Columbia Symphony, and Mid-Columbia Musical Theatre, to create a centralized venue that meets the needs of performers and audiences alike. The MCPAC will be an 800-seat, state-of-the-art facility strategically located in Columbia Park West, near the REACH Museum, to maximize accessibility and cultural synergy.With groundbreaking projected for late 2025 and an anticipated opening in 2028, we are committed to transparent governance, community-driven planning, and ethical fundraising practices. Our leadership team brings extensive expertise in event management, marketing, and nonprofit administration, ensuring accountability and long-term sustainability. We maintain strong partnerships with local stakeholders, including the Tri-Cities Regional Chamber of Commerce and Visit Tri-Cities, to align our vision with regional development goals. Through annual 990 filings and public reporting, we uphold the highest standards of financial transparency and donor trust. Our mission reflects a deep commitment to enriching lives through the arts, creating a legacy that will benefit generations to come.
Services
Performing arts center development
Community arts partnerships
Cultural event planning
Nonprofit fundraising campaigns
Arts education programs
Highlights and features
- We bring decades of combined experience in arts management and nonprofit operations.
- Our strategic location in Columbia Park West maximizes accessibility and cultural synergy.
- We maintain transparent governance and financial accountability through annual 990 filings.
- Our team has successfully organized over 100 community events and cultural programs.
- We partner with established regional arts organizations to ensure programming excellence.
What people say
Strong community engagement
Clear project timelines
Transparent operations
Experienced leadership team
Services
Performing arts center development
Planning and building an 800-seat performing arts center in Richland, WA. Our team coordinates site selection, fundraising, and community partnerships to create a state-of-the-art facility. This project supports local arts organizations while enhancing regional cultural infrastructure.
Community arts partnerships
Strengthening relationships with regional arts groups including symphony orchestras and theater companies. We facilitate resource sharing, joint programming, and coordinated outreach to expand access to performing arts across the Tri-Cities area.
Cultural event planning
Organizing community engagement events like our annual Holiday Breakfast and fundraising galas. These programs build public support while showcasing the importance of dedicated arts facilities in the region.
Nonprofit fundraising campaigns
Implementing strategic fundraising initiatives targeting $81 million for center construction. Our approach includes corporate sponsorships, individual donations, and grant applications to ensure financial sustainability and community ownership.
Arts education programs
Developing educational initiatives that connect local students with performing arts opportunities. We work with schools and community organizations to create training programs that prepare future artists and arts professionals.
People
Blake Smith
Executive Director
Arts administrator with 20+ years of experience in venue operations and event management. Formerly with the Hobby Center for the Arts and Delta Center Arena, bringing expertise in large-scale performing arts facility development.
Amber Maiden
Operations Director
Marketing and public relations professional with 8+ years in nonprofit management. Formerly with Visit Tri-Cities and Historic Downtown Kennewick Partnership, specializing in event planning and community engagement strategies.
Justin Raffa
Board Chair
Choral director and arts advocate with extensive experience in nonprofit leadership. Serves as Artistic Director of Mid-Columbia Mastersingers and former chair of Richland's Arts Commission.
Rick Walling
Vice Chair
Engineer and performing arts enthusiast with 30 years of involvement in local theater. Active with Mid-Columbia Musical Theatre and Mastersingers, combining technical expertise with arts administration experience.
Joel Rogo
Trustee
Dance educator and arts administrator with background in stage management and nonprofit leadership. Director of Mid-Columbia Ballet and former stage manager for national touring productions.
Questions
What is the Mid-Columbia Performing Arts Center?
An 800-seat venue supporting local arts organizations through performances, education, and community programs.
Where will the arts center be located?
In Columbia Park West, Richland, WA, near the REACH Museum with river views.
When will construction begin?
Current projections target groundbreaking in late 2025 with opening in 2028.
How is the project funded?
Through community donations, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising campaigns targeting $81 million.
Which organizations will use the facility?
Mid-Columbia Mastersingers, Symphony, Musical Theatre, Ballet, and regional arts groups.
How can I get involved?
Donate, attend events, join our mailing list, or contact us about volunteer opportunities.