Director's Update, April 2020
Director’s Update, April 2020
A message from our Executive Director, Greg Wright
Greetings to All Near to Far,
The piles of snow have mostly vanished here at North House, a sure sign that spring’s arrival is underway. And while up on the ridge the layers of white are still abundant, down by the water the daily rhythms of commercial fishing in Grand Marais have returned. There is something reassuring in the fishermans' daily tasks (not to mention the calls of swirling gulls), connecting all of us to the big lake and gathering sustenance for our community.
I write with an update regarding North House and our efforts to both maintain our balance and find our voice amidst the challenges of COVID-19. The importance of staying connected to community in these challenging times matters for many reasons, and this director’s update is one part of multiple efforts. Monthly, I will share news with our community of students, instructors, volunteers, donors, partners and neighbors.
The world has been redefined by the COVID-19 pandemic, and our hearts go out to communities and individuals most challenged by the outbreak. In addition, we salute the many people working in service to others during these challenging times. In a small community like Grand Marais, it is an honor to witness both friends and neighbors taking action – assisting at the food shelf, providing health care leadership, teaching now-dispersed local school students, pulling groceries for pick up, etc. It truly takes a village.
Much has changed in the past weeks, and North House is working hard to come around the corner with purposeful strategies in confusing times:
* For the first time in our 23 years, North House has “closed its front door,” to date cancelling all coursework for two months through May 17. Safety and health is our priority. We anticipate additional cancellations may be needed which will be announced on a rolling basis.
* In spite of course cancellations, we know the power of craft and the importance of community is needed now more than ever. Like Makers throughout time, our task is to use the tools we have to create utility and beauty. Our emerging Crafting In Place project uses the digital world to share stories of craft, offer inspiration, celebrate curiosity, and bring the talents of our community of artisans to life. Outreach for local youth will send out hands-on craft project kits to hundreds of homes.
* Recognizing the importance of deliberate planning, we have built out multiple models to help us understand the fiscal realities and other challenges we need to face, positioning us so we can at once plan for the worst but hope for the best. Many pieces are part of North House’s plan – from federal programs to our emergency cash reserve, foundation partners to donor engagement.
* Looking forward, we know that keeping North House strong and its staff team whole is a priority, so we can keep the power of craft and community alive. We need inspiration in our collective lives today. We also need to create the future programs and engage campus projects so we are ready to re-ignite our hands-on mission here on campus when the time is right - a robust fall 2020/winter 2021 calendar is taking shape. Most staff are working remotely. Reduced hours are being implemented for all staff. Our intern and artisan development programs are still underway.
* Our partnership with the circle of artisan instructors who teach our year-round courses is at the very core of our efforts. In these challenging times and in spite of course cancellations, we must continue to find meaningful ways to work together. Our digital outreach is off to a promising start. Other initiatives are taking shape. Their vitality as artisans is central to craft’s future.
No doubt, more challenges await ahead. Together we can keep North House’s extended community connected and strong, as it serves as a potent affirmation of what is right in this world. My hope is that these regular updates can play a part keeping everyone well informed. If you have questions, comments or ideas, please be in touch.
In appreciation and on behalf of everyone at North House,
Greg Wright
Executive Director
PS A couple links that may be of interest
* Learning more about Crafting In Place is easy. Just visit www.northhouse.org
* Improvements to our online giving system make it easier than ever: www.northhouse.org/giving/support-us-now
* Carving knives to unique books. Our school store has resources aplenty! www.northhouse.org/store