Orlando Museum of Art gets a record-breaking $575K boost – The biggest ever from Council of 101

The support from Council of 101, the museum’s longtime volunteer fundraising organization. was fueled by the highly successful Festival of Trees and Art in Bloom events.

The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) has received a record-breaking $575,000 gift from the Council of 101, the museum’s dedicated volunteer fundraising organization. This gift represents the Council’s largest annual contribution in its history and underscores the continued impact of its signature events, Festival of Trees and Art in Bloom.

The Council of 101 has supported OMA since 1965, raising funds through beloved community events that bring art, design and philanthropy together. Powered by the efforts of nearly 300 volunteers, the organization has contributed more than $15 million to the museum over the past six decades, helping expand exhibitions, educational initiatives and programs that connect Central Florida residents and visitors with the arts.

This year’s $575,000 donation surpasses last year’s record-setting $540,000 gift and continues the Council’s momentum in strengthening access to arts and culture throughout the region.

“Year after year, the Council of 101 demonstrates what is possible when creativity, service and community come together in support of the arts,” said Cathryn Mattson, CEO of OMA. “We are incredibly grateful for this historic gift, which will help OMA continue presenting meaningful exhibitions, expanding educational programming and creating welcoming experiences for audiences of all ages.”

The Council’s annual fundraising efforts are driven in large part by Festival of Trees and Art in Bloom, two of OMA’s most anticipated events. Through imaginative installations, floral design, holiday décor and community participation, both events help introduce new audiences to the museum while generating critical support for its mission.

Last year’s Festival of Trees welcomed more than 14,000 attendees over its 10-day run, while Art in Bloom in April drew a crowd of 2,400 visitors over the four-day event.

“This gift is truly a reflection of the hard work and heart of our members,” said Donna Neck, President of the Council of 101. “Everything we accomplish is powered by volunteers who care deeply about the museum and our community. We’re incredibly proud to continue supporting OMA and helping create experiences that bring people through its doors year after year.”

The donation will support OMA’s exhibitions, educational workshops, outreach initiatives and special programming designed to inspire creativity, foster learning and broaden access to the arts. 

Coming on the heels of OMA’s recent reaccreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, this milestone gift further underscores the museum’s enduring role as a cornerstone of Orlando’s cultural community. With the ongoing support of partners like the Council of 101, OMA is well positioned to continue providing meaningful arts experiences that inspire, educate and connect the Central Florida community.

For more information about the Orlando Museum of Art and upcoming events, please visit www.omart.org.

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