York Art Association Launches $2 Million “Art Transforming” Campaign

York, PA — September 17, 2025 — In the winter of 2023, the York Art Association (YAA) received unexpected news: its longtime home on Marshall Street would be taken over by PennDOT, forcing the organization to relocate. For more than 120 years, YAA has been a cornerstone of the arts in York County, and closing its doors has never been an option. Instead, in the face of adversity, the Association is taking this opportunity to transform.

YAA has spent the past two years thoughtfully preparing for its next chapter, as eminent domain requires it to leave its current Marshall Street location by June 2026. Shortly before the relocation announcement, the organization appointed its first executive director, Mr. Roth J. Preap, who, alongside the Board of Directors and a dedicated capital campaign committee, helped prepare the organization for a bold new future in renovating the historic Little Green Church as its new location, located at 591 Linden Ave in York, Pennsylvania.

On September 14, 2025, before a gathering of members and supporters, YAA officially launched the public phase of its Art Transforming Capital Campaign, a $2 million initiative to ensure the future of visual arts in York County as well as its co-chairs for the campaign, Mrs. Fran Hoover, an artist and YAA member of over 20 years and Mr. Michael Lowe, CEO of the York Academy and YAA Board President.

Since the beginning of the campaign’s quiet phase in February 2025, generous donors and community partners have already pledged more than 60% of the total goal, reflecting strong confidence in YAA’s vision.

“I’ve been a member of the York Art Association for nearly 60 years, and I’m excited for the future in our new building. The talented artists, dedicated leadership, and exceptional programs make me confident that our community and membership will continue to grow and thrive in this new space,” said Mrs. Connie Shorb.

YAA has not only received support from its members but also from community members and local foundations.

“Powder Mill Foundation is honored to support this campaign towards their new home and saving another historic York landmark building.  We wish them the very best as they continue to improve the cultural fabric of York”, said Mr. Michael Hady, President and CEO of the Powder Mill Foundation.

The campaign will expand educational classrooms and spaces, modernize teaching facilities, and strengthen YAA’s role as a hub for creativity, connection, and cultural growth.

“This is a historic moment for the York Art Association,” said Executive Director Mr. Preap. “For more than a century, YAA has connected the community and artists. With our new location, we are ensuring that art continues to inspire, educate, and bring people together for generations to come.”

The campaign welcomes contributions of all sizes from individuals, businesses, and art enthusiasts alike. Every gift helps shape the cultural future of York County. To learn more about the campaign or to donate, please visit https://www.yorkartassociation.org/littlegreenchurch

About York Art Association

Founded in 1905, the York Art Association seeks to develop an interest in the visual arts; to provide opportunities for education through classroom instruction, workshops, lectures and publications; to support interaction within the community and to provide a venue for members and non-members to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. YAA remains a vital part of York’s cultural identity and artistic legacy.