Historic Institutions Building Together: Hirschfeld at the Harmonie

Description

Partnering with another historic organization in New York City has been a great experience for the Club members, the Club's bottom line, and the Al Hirschfeld Foundation. The Club was able to provide unique programming designed for a variety of demographics all because of the partnership. In addition, by creating a series of events around an exhibition of Al Hirschfeld’s original artwork in the Clubhouse, the Club raised awareness for arts education in under-served communities. The artwork on display was available for sale to the members (in addition to other items at custom events). Proceeds from the sales of the artwork provided important funding for the Al Hirschfeld Foundation's charitable work while 10% of the proceeds were contributed to the Harmonie Preservation Foundation (501c3) to restore the Club’s historic façade. This provided invaluable support in more ways than one!

Implementation

We tried to implement this idea in as many ways as possible in the Clubhouse. From creating an opening reception to making a podcast so members could take audio tours of the Clubhouse even when we weren't offering a guided tour. We wanted members to understand the special art that was hanging throughout our facility. This is the first time that we have ever had a partnership like this with another organization. We also planned panel discussions with actors, activities for children and built awareness through social media posts, our newsletters, electronic boards in the Clubhouse, fliers and custom cocktail napkins around the Club. Members' reactions have been very positive. The varied programs provided a wide range of things that members could experience and they really liked it. We were able to reach a lot of demographics so our members were happy.

Members also saw a lot of value in the partnership because they were able to purchase the art which supported the charitable Al Hirschfeld Foundation and also supported the Club's Historic Preservation Foundation. This was a big hit and we sold a lot of art!