Armed Services Arts Partnership announces Ambassadorship and $100K donation from Craig Newmark Philanthropies
GIFT FROM CRAIGSLIST FOUNDER WILL HELP SUPPORT VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILIES THROUGH THE ARTS
AUGUST 28, 2019 – Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) is proud to announce a $100K contribution from Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies, to expand arts opportunities for veterans in the DC Metro Area and Hamptons Roads, VA. In recognition of this gift, ASAP has named Craig Newmark an Ambassador of the organization.
Newmark’s Ambassadorship elevates impactful community arts programs for the veteran and military community that promote expression, skill development and camaraderie. His gift will help fund classes, workshops, and performances across a variety of art forms, including stand-up comedy, to veterans, service members, military families, and caregivers.
“We are thrilled to have Craig Newmark as an ASAP Ambassador,” ASAP Executive Director Brian Jenkins said. “Craig’s passion for veteran issues and the arts, particularly comedy, makes this an excellent match. He understands the value of expression and humor in the military community.”
Ambassadors of the Armed Services Arts Partnership include other high-profile veterans, artists, and philanthropists who are committed to the organization’s mission. Newmark joins existing ASAP Ambassadors Major General Juan Ayala (USMC, Ret), Carter Bays (Co-Creator, How I Met Your Mother), Melissa Fitzgerald (Actor, The West Wing), and Andrea McCarren (Emmy Award-winning journalist).
“Veterans and their families deserve all kinds of support, and this includes providing an outlet for artistic and comedic expression,” said Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies. “The chance to gain life skills and strengthen community ties through the arts is vital to the well-being of veterans, and I’m proud to support ASAP for this reason.”
Across all programs, the organization focuses on building community, fostering self-expression, and promoting well-being for participants. In five years, ASAP has served over 800 veterans through 250 classes and workshops. Their alumni have performed for more than 100,000 audience members, including shows at the Warner Theater, Gotham Comedy Club, for Former President Jimmy Carter, and at The White House under President Obama.
ABOUT ARMED SERVICES ARTS PARTNERSHIP (ASAP)
ASAP is a non-profit dedicated to cultivating community and growth with veterans, service members, military families, and caregivers through the arts. Based in Washington D.C. and Hampton Roads, Va., ASAP offers free classes and workshops in stand-up comedy, storytelling improv, writing, visual arts, and more. Contact Josiah Day | josiah@asapasap.org
ABOUT CRAIG NEWMARK PHILANTHROPIES
Craig Newmark Philanthropies was created by craigslist founder Craig Newmark to support and connect people and drive broad civic engagement. It works to advance people and grassroots organizations that are getting stuff done in areas that include trustworthy journalism, voter protection, gender diversity in technology, and veterans and military families.