NAA… start your creative journey by Giving Back

by Laurel Meny

As Southwest Florida’s only dedicated visual art center for over 60 years, the Naples Art Association (NAA) prides itself on providing exciting, unique opportunities to experience and display art. Whether it is partnering with area nonprofits to engage those with disabilities, hosting programming for children, hosting the nation’s top ranked outdoor art show, or offering a first-of-its-kind wearble art runway show, the NAA is always in the forefront of arts education and exhibitions in the community.

So, how do we pull it all off with a limited staff and an even more limited budget? With your help, of course! We rely on hundreds of dedicated volunteers to assist in the planning, implementation, and management of our array of programs, exhibits, outdoor art shows, and even our front desk. 

And, while we at the NAA know the value it provides for our organization, do you know what volunteering can do for you? It not only offers you an opportunity to make a valuable contribution to the NAA, it is also proven to help you gain confidence; meet new people; make new friends; learn new skills; reduce stress levels and much more.

Micki Nelles, a longtime NAA volunteer, “I started volunteering at the Naples Art Association in 1999 when we were spending half the year in Naples. I have continued volunteering for all of these years simply because it is fun. I love being with the variety of people that attend and exhibit at these shows. Being from Chicago, where there are some spectacular art shows, I couldn’t help but to everyone there that they must get to Naples and attend an NAA show. The energy is contagious!”

Current volunteer opportunities available include serving as a booth sitter or gate ambassador at our outdoor art shows; joining a committee to help plan one of our exciting annual events including Scene to be Seen: A Runway Art Show or For the Love of Art; working at the NAA’s front desk where you will answer phones and serve as a friendly face for visitors; or even work in the NAA’s popular gift shop.

The volunteer opportunities don’t require much time commitment, but will be of great benefit to the NAA.
“I volunteer because I love the art shows. I think NAA’s are the best. The artists and venues are great. I enjoy being there,” said NAA volunteer Linda Duggan. In order for the Naples Art Association to continue to inspire
and empower not only artists, but the general community, and lead and advocate for the arts, we need you. If you have already started your art journey by attending classes or exhibits, thank you.

If you are looking for a way to dip your toes in the art pond, we encourage you to start by volunteering with us. We are positive that you will quickly become one of our cherished volunteers. For more information about volunteer opportunities, please contact Mary Visgilio at Mary.Visgilio@NaplesArt.org or 239.262.6517, ext. 115. Visit NaplesArt.org for information on upcoming workshops, exhibitions, and shows.