<div># After 40 Years of Building Theater for Our Community... Now I Need Your Help
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<div>**For decades, I had the privilege of helping others tell their stories. Today, with humility, I'm sharing my own.**
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<div>This is one of the most difficult things I have ever written.
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<div>For more than 40 years, I have had the honor of dedicating my life to theater. I began directing and acting at the Ephrata Performing Arts Center in 1986 and became Artistic Director in 1996. During those years, I had the privilege of directing hundreds of artists, mentoring countless performers and volunteers, and helping build a theater that has become one of the most respected and beloved performing arts organizations in our region. More importantly, it became a second home to so many people—including me.
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<div>Recently, I shared the difficult news that my employment with the Ephrata Performing Arts Center has come to an end. After more than three decades of service, my employment was terminated, and I will not be receiving severance or retirement benefits.
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<div>The outpouring of love and support from this community has been overwhelming. I have been deeply moved by every message, phone call, email, and expression of encouragement. Many of you have reached out asking one simple question:
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<div>**"How can I help?"**
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<div>After much thought—and setting aside my own pride—I have decided to create this GoFundMe.
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<div>I have spent my life asking people to support the theater. I never imagined that one day I would be asking the theater community to support me.
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<div>At 67 years old, I never imagined I would be starting over. I am actively seeking opportunities to continue working, but because of arthritis in my knee and the realities of today's job market for someone my age, I know this transition may take time.
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<div>Your support will help provide stability while I rebuild my life and career, including:
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<div>* Everyday living expenses
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<div>* Medical and health-related costs
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<div>* Caring for my beloved pets
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<div>* Existing financial obligations
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<div>* Transportation expenses
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<div>* Professional expenses associated with navigating this unexpected career transition
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<div>Asking for help has never come easily to me. Throughout my career, I have tried to give back—to artists, volunteers, audiences, and this community. Today, I find myself in the unfamiliar position of accepting help, and I do so with humility and profound gratitude.
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<div>If you have ever performed in one of my productions, worked alongside me onstage or backstage, volunteered at the theater, attended a show, or simply believe in supporting those who have dedicated their lives to the arts, I would be honored by your support.
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<div>If my work over the past four decades has ever made you laugh, moved you to tears, inspired you, or touched your heart in any way, I hope you will consider helping me through this difficult chapter.
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<div>Whether you are able to contribute financially or simply share this campaign with others, every act of kindness will help me move forward.
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<div>While this chapter of my life has closed unexpectedly, I still believe the best stories are those that find hope after hardship. I remain grateful for this community, and I look forward to the day when I can once again give back in the way I know best.
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<div>Thank you for believing in me.
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<div>With heartfelt gratitude,
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<div>**Edward R. Fernandez**
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Standing with Edward Through His Transition

platform

Platform is iOS

Android

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Standing with Edward Through His Transition

Still $4,075 to go. Help us build momentum.