2025 ANNUAL FUND

Nearly 25% of Gorton Center’s costs are funded by charitable gifts, and the impact of this generosity comes to life in every area of programming – from the Children’s Learning Center and Gorton Drama Studio to films, live music, enriching classes, and community gathering spaces! Thanks to our donors, Gorton has flourished into a vibrant hub for community, arts & culture.

In 2024 – for Gorton Center’s 50th Anniversary – our dedicated donors helped us reach new heights by raising more for our Annual Fund than ever before! This unlocked an elevated level of programming and engagement, and we strive to continue that momentum in 2025 by raising $600,000 for Gorton’s Annual Fund. Together, we are creating a more connected and enriched community.

Annual Fund Thermometer showing 27% as of May 31, 2025

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Gorton Annual Fund
Contact Development Team
2024 Annual Report

As a community-supported 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, Gorton relies on donors like you to help us serve as an active and vital center for arts, entertainment and learning – providing enrichment and connection across the community. Gifts to Gorton allow us to expand the experiences we offer and care for our historic building while keeping ticket and class pricing accessible. Please consider making a donation today.

Online
Use the link above to make a one-time donation or set up a recurring gift.

By Mail
Send to Gorton Center, Development Office, 400 E. Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045.

Stock Gifts
For information on making a gift of stock, please contact Laura Demmer at laura@gortoncenter.org or 847.810.4108.

Donor Advised Funds
If you have a Donor Advised Fund, consider recommending a grant to Gorton.

Matching Gifts
The amount of your gift may be doubled if you work for an employer who matches the charitable gifts of employees. Simply contact your company’s human resource department.

Planned Giving
Help ensure Gorton Center’s prosperity for future generations by including Gorton in your estate plans or designating Gorton as a beneficiary of your retirement plan or other account.

For more information on giving to Gorton, please reach out to our Development team:
Laura Demmer, Director of Development, 847.810.4108, laura@gortoncenter.org
Ann Kiesling, Manager of Donor Engagement, 847.810.4119, annk@gortoncenter.org
Gorton Center’s EIN ID is 20-0484607.

Contact our Development Team

Laura Demmer, Director of Development
Ann Kiesling, Manager of Donor Engagement

847-234-6060

View Gorton Center's 2024 Annual Report

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Gathering together to experience live performances, learn something new, or enjoy on-screen offerings is the heart and soul of what we do here at Gorton Center.

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