Community Foundation grant funding helping to restore Massena’s historic Schine Theater

Foundation matching grant now doubling all new gifts in support of the project

     MASSENA — Community Foundation grant funding totaling $62,000 will help the Massena Arts and Theater Association move its vision for a new heart of downtown closer to reality and “Unlock the Schine.”

     In December, the Association was awarded a pair of $25,000 Community Foundation matching grants and a $10,000 grant from the Dr. D. Susan Badenhausen Legacy Fund at the Foundation to support the $3.2 million Schine Theater restoration. An additional $2,000 grant from the Ray E. Richardson Fund of the Community Foundation was also recently awarded.

     The matching grants mean that the Community Foundation will immediately double all new gifts up to $25,000 from individual donors, local businesses, and other contributors, in support of the “Unlock the Schine” campaign. A second $25,000 match will be activated when $100,000 is left to raise toward the project campaign.

     “This effort has been a great example of community pride and commitment, and we are excited to help continue the momentum that has been built to make this project a reality,” said Rande S. Richardson, Community Foundation executive director.

     The investment reflects more than financial support. Over the past two years, the Community Foundation’s team has worked closely with the volunteer-led organization, offering guidance on fundraising strategy, community engagement, and long-term sustainability as the project has taken shape.

     To date, more than $2.7 million has been secured for the project through grants and gifts.

     That partnership has helped position restoration of the historic Schine Theater as a catalytic investment in Massena’s downtown, blending arts and culture, community pride, and much-needed economic development,

     “Partnering with Northern New York Community Foundation helps to validate our belief in and passion for this project. The Foundation’s belief in the project enables us to continue knowing that such a reputable funder sees our vision and believes in the project,” Massena Arts and Theater Association President Allison Smith said.

     The project represents a broader goal for the Foundation: helping communities invest in places that bring people together and strengthen the cultural and civic life of the region for generations to come.

     Originally built in 1918, the ornate movie house closed in 1995 and has remained largely vacant since. Today, community leaders are working to transform the 14,000-square-foot building into a multi-use performing arts and community event center designed to serve residents of all ages.

     “This project has moved, in what feels like a very short time, from a group of passionate concerned citizens hoping to save a beloved theater into a viable community organization that is ready to serve as the backbone of downtown Massena and the North Country,” Mrs. Smith said.

     Work is projected to begin this summer with substantial completion targeted for early 2027.

About the Northern New York Community Foundation

     Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.

     Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous familiesand individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

     The Community Foundation is a resource for local charitable organizations, donors, professional advisors and nonprofit organizations. It also works to bring people together at its permanent home in the Northern New York Philanthropy Center to discuss challenges our communities face and find creative solutions that strengthen the region and make it a great place to live, work, and play.