The Blandin Foundation announced a $475,000 grant to the Reif Performing Arts Center in Grand Rapids to explore the potential for the development of a new amphitheater and cultural center.

The effort is designed to bolster Grand Rapids’ cultural and economic vitality, strengthen community ties and celebrate local creativity.

The grant supports the Reif’s goals to: expand community outreach through initiatives like affordable/free ticket programs and field trips, develop large-scale signature events and explore new revenue streams to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

“This grant reflects our commitment to fostering strong rural communities through placemaking and collaboration,” said Tuleah Palmer, President and CEO of the Blandin Foundation. “Rural placemaking is about creating spaces where people want to live, work, play and learn. The Reif’s vision strongly aligns with our mission to invest in regional economic opportunity and the community’s rich creative energy.”

The Executive Director of the Reif, Jim Mack, added that this is a game changer, and they’re grateful to the Blandin Foundation.

“As I like to say, we all celebrate birthdays, weddings, celebrations of life. That’s what we’re looking to accomplish here, is a place for those, with a capacity for about 500 people,” Mack said.

There is space next to the Reif that would be good for the expansion, according to Mack.

Stay tuned for more community engagement about this feasibility study.