Growing into a Charity
OPA was soon growing into a 501 (c)3 charity. Members researched by-laws, articles of incorporation, charters, and legal requirements (such as getting a solicitation number) to create a 501C charity. A bank account was established and official documents filed. In 2016, Dinah Remington worked on behalf of OPA to become a charity organization sponsored by Jay Ghosh Enterprises and Mary Esther Bingo. Future projects were to be sponsored by Mary Esther Bingo donations.
Projects have included:
Northwest Florida Airport
OPA sponsored an art exhibition on the walls at the airport which hung for a year for many visitors and locals to enjoy.
Destin Library
OPA has sponsored multiple exhibitions at the Destin Library.
Northwest Florida State College
OPA sponsored an art exhibition at the Northwest Florida State College Library and in their Visitors Center.
Northwest Florida Ballet
OPA has sponsored multiple juried art exhibitions in the Northwest Florida Ballet’s studio and performing space which were held in conjunction with Ballet performances.
Monetary donations have been provided to:
- The Emerald Coast Science Center in support of their new art equipment
- Arts and Design Society in support of their art programs
- Northwest Florida Ballet Académie in support of their art classes
- The seven Okaloosa County High Schools in support of their Art programs
- Northwest Florida State College merit scholarships for Arts Students
