We’re thrilled to announce that the Sacramento Region Community Foundation awarded seven grants totaling $37,500 from the Dennis Mangers Fund for Young Performing Artists. These grants ensure that young people passionate about the performing arts can access high-quality instruction and pursue their dreams.
Named in honor of Dennis Mangers — a former Chair of our Board of Directors whose five-decade career in public service left an indelible mark — the fund embodies a cause very close to his heart. Dennis recalls the financial barriers he faced as a young performer, despite his evident talent and passion. His experience inspires our commitment to remove obstacles for today’s youth in the arts.
With its grant, CLARA will offer summer camps to local youth.
In celebrating his legacy, we support projects that will spark creativity, growth, and opportunities for young performers across our region. With their award, Balance Dance Project is providing scholarships for youth to receive year-round dance training, while CLARA will offer summer camps that foster creativity, collaboration, and arts access.
The Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera will bring free music education and performance opportunities to local students, and Friends of Sacramento Arts plans to advocate for arts education through workshops and events that support community leaders. Sisters of Nia Inc. will empower girls through performing arts and leadership development, and, with its grant, NorCal Arts will open doors to the arts with scholarships for classes, productions, and internships. Meanwhile, the Arab Community Center for Integration Services will ensure culturally relevant arts experiences through workshops, performances, and financial support.
Since 2016, the Dennis Mangers Fund for Young Performing Artists has provided a total of $140,000 in support to area nonprofits—ensuring that financial challenges do not stand in the way of talented young artists. This initiative complements our commitment to enhancing health equity in the Sacramento region by supporting the well-being of local youth.
The Sacramento Region Community Foundation remains the primary provider of philanthropic services for people, families, and businesses in El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, and Yolo counties. In 2024, we awarded $24 million in grants and scholarships, and since 1983, the Foundation has distributed over $275 million to support our community.
