The Shiawassee Community Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the Shiawassee Arts Council (SAC) Fund in Memory of William W. and Grace C. Burk — a new donor designated fund created to ensure continued support for the Shiawassee Arts Council and its mission of enriching our community through the arts.
Past Owosso residents William (“Bill”) and Grace Burk were deeply involved in the Shiawassee Arts Council for many years. Bill served on the SAC Board of Directors for 12 years, and Grace volunteered as a docent for 10 years, welcoming visitors and sharing her love for local art. Although both passed away in 2013, their generous gifts of time, talent, and treasure continue to make a difference in Shiawassee County. This new fund honors their memory and ensures their passion for creativity and culture will live on for generations to come.
“The Burks were true champions of the arts,” said Piper Brewer, Executive Director for SAC. “Their leadership and love for the Shiawassee Arts Council helped strengthen one of our community’s most valued cultural institutions. We’re honored to help continue that legacy through this new fund.”
About the Shiawassee Arts Council
Established in 1972, the Shiawassee Arts Council (SAC) has been a cornerstone of local culture for more than 50 years. SAC operates out of the Shiawassee Arts Center under a 99-year lease with the City of Owosso, signed in 2005. Located in the scenic Curwood Castle Park, the Arts Center overlooks the Shiawassee River in downtown Owosso and features nine galleries, classrooms, meeting spaces, and a permanent art collection across three levels totaling 8,700 square feet.
Over the years, the Shiawassee Arts Council has expanded its space and programs to better serve the community. A major renovation in 2008 increased gallery and education areas, funded through organizational revenues, a state grant, and private donations. Accessibility improvements continued in 2014 with the addition of a three-floor elevator, made possible by a state capital improvement grant and a generous donor bequest.
Today, the Arts Center is open seven days a week with free admission, offering rotating art exhibits, educational opportunities, and special events for visitors of all ages. SAC continues to play a vital role in fostering creativity and connection throughout Shiawassee County.
Community members who wish to honor Bill and Grace Burk’s memory and support the arts in Shiawassee County can contribute to the Shiawassee Arts Council (SAC) Fund in Memory of William W. and Grace C. Burk through the Shiawassee Community Foundation.
Donations can be made online at www.shiacf.org/donate — simply select the Shiawassee Arts Council Fund in the dropdown menu. Your gift will help ensure that the arts remain accessible, inspiring, and vibrant in our community for many years to come.