
The Classic Center Cultural Foundation, a nonprofit organization under The Classic Center Authority, has been a cornerstone of community support for nearly 25 years, providing scholarships and grants that total over $60,000 annually. Since its beginnings on April 21, 2001, the Foundation has flourished through its annual fundraising events, scholarship awards, and its role as a vibrant social hub for the community, offering exceptional hospitality and enhancing entertainment experiences at The Classic Center. In addition to these efforts, the Foundation has also supported local arts and provided members with exclusive trips to New York City and other international destinations.
A variety of annual events
The Classic Center Cultural Foundation hosts a variety of annual events open to the community, all designed to raise funds for local scholarships in performing arts, visual arts, and hospitality education. These events include:
The Classic Center Cultural Foundation Golf Tournament – Scheduled for March 24, 2025.
Athens Beer Fest – Set for April 6, 2025.
Breakfast with Santa
Athens Wine Weekend
Each of these events plays a vital role in providing scholarships to students pursuing careers in the arts and hospitality, helping them fulfill their educational dreams and contribute to the cultural and economic growth of the community.
Scholarships awarded
The Classic Center Cultural Foundation awards performing arts scholarships, visual arts scholarships, to area students based on an application process. These scholarships are open to 9th through 12th-grade high school students living in the Northeast Georgia region.
Through the Paul T. Martin Hospitality Education Fund scholarships are provided up to $25,000 to individuals interested in pursuing a career in hospitality, event, music, or the sports management industry. Applications for the Paul T. Martin Hospitality Education Fund are open to anyone currently enrolled in a hospitality, event, music, or sports management degree program at the University of Georgia or Athens Technical College. In addition, graduating seniors of the Athens Community Career Academy are also encouraged to apply.
How to donate
Whether you’re looking to elevate your experience at The Classic Center’s entertainment events, make a meaningful contribution to the arts in Athens, support the development of the hospitality workforce, or participate in one of the Foundation’s annual fundraising events, The Classic Center Cultural Foundation offers the perfect opportunity to bring the community together, celebrate, and showcase the best of Athens.
For more information about The Classic Center Cultural Foundation’s events or to find out how you can get involved, visit ClassicCenter.com.