Hello, friends.

I'm in the 16th year of producing my indie performance InspiredWordNYC. It's been such an incredible ride in my post-retirement life after journalism.

Mind you, financially, it wasn't the greatest idea, but my heart is full. I know I made a difference in the history of the New York City arts scene and I've helped countless aspiring artists grow in their careers.

Nothing could make me happier. I wouldn't change the last 16 years for anything. It's my passion. My world. My mission: Unity through the arts. In the words of Joseph Campbell, I found my bliss.

But I just turned 69 years old. I'm realistic. I promise my artistic family - and myself - that I will continue doing shows until I can't walk, but age captures us all in the end.

Despite my age, I've just added two Manhattan venues to my one in Brooklyn. I've also increased my number of shows at the iconic Off-Broadway Triad Theater. I want to go out with a bang.

The expenses are enormous. Paying for venues, sound technicians, talent, marketing, the occasional guest host. I could use some help.

I want to pay artists more. They deserve it. Paying artists has always been a priority for us. I want to add a professional photographer.

I want to grow our visibility with more expensive advertising.

Our motto has always been: "We've not just a series...We're a MOVEMENT."

We're true to that. We believe in the strength of an artistic community. In teamwork. In a real family of artists.

I'm hopeful. Despite all the societal struggles. That we can come together through the arts.

I want, more than anything, as Gandhi said, to be the change I want to see in this world.

Help us continue to do that. Thank you so much in advance.

Mike Geffner, InspiredWordNYC Founder/Producer/Host

https://inspiredwordnyc.com/

@InspiredWordNYC on all social media platforms