A luau fundraiser on June 30 will support a capital campaign to expand the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture.

JOSEPH — The Josephy Center for Arts and Culture invites you to partner in the possibilities.

During a recent Tuesday Talk, Executive Director Cheryl Coughlan and Dera Stewart, development director, shared with the public the possibilities for the expansion of the Josephy Center as they presented information on the Phase II Capital Campaign currently underway.

The Josephy Center today

Since its beginnings 12 years ago, the Josephy Center’s classes, programs, events, exhibits and visitors have increased. Each year, thousands of people from all over the world visit the center. It provides tourists a glimpse into “the values and character of our small rural community,” Coughlan said.

They learn about the Nez Perce story, the history and art of the diverse cultures represented in Wallowa County.

The expansion

This Phase II expansion project includes the construction of a two-story addition to the center, including an elevator providing access for all visitors. A large, well-equipped ceramics studio will be located downstairs providing greater studio/classroom space to meet the growing demands of students.

This addition creates possibilities for new projects, such as ceramic wheel throwing classes, a ceramics membership club, and an artist-in-residence program, the staff said.

A grand multipurpose room will be located just above the ceramics studio, serving the community by offering much-needed space for meetings, lectures, gatherings, private events and concerts as well as space for classes including yoga and more.

Fundraising goal

The fundraising goal is $1.6 million. To date, through grants and donations, they have successfully raised $1,100,950. Coughlan said there are outstanding grants that will be coming in through August. The funds that they are seeking during the public phase of the campaign is $300,000.

Luau fundraiser

The public is invited to a luau fundraiser highlighting the culture and traditions of Hawaii on Sunday, June 30, 5-8 p.m. on the lawn next to the Josephy Center. Dinner will be catered by Z’s Barbecue.

Tickets are available through June 15 at josephy.org/event/luau-fundraiser or call 541-432-0505. Tickets are $50 adults, $20 ages 6-12 and free for 5 and younger.