Last year an estimated $4.1 million came into the county from film productions! It's been 25 years since the Monterey County Film Commission was created by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors. But the non-profit organizationâs funds from the county provide only a portion of its budget each year, so additional support from cities, grants, businesses, and individuals are critical.
For the past 21 years, the film commission's largest annual fundraiser has been a glamorous gala in a ballroom, celebrating the Academy Awards. This year the commission is doing a different fundraising appeal, inviting local residents to "Stay Home with Oscar," tuning into the February 26 broadcast on their televisions in the comfort of their own homes while still supporting the Film Commission.
Rather than incurring the costs of a gown, tuxedo, taxi, dinner tickets and silent auction items, supporters are asked to donate $100-$250 to the Film Commission, providing more direct funds to the non-profit, plus a greater tax-deductible benefit to donors.
In return, contributors can receive all sorts of fun thank-you gifts and will be entered into a drawing for a movie-themed basket of goodies including a magnum of Cima Collina wine, a two-night stay at Montereyâs Hotel Pacific, and more.
For more information on the "Stay Home with Oscar" fundraising campaign and to donate to the Monterey County Film Commission, please contact the office at 831-646-0910.
