FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What exactly is a non-profit organization?

It is important to understand that the common idea of a non-profit is based more on the underlying intent of an organization. That intent must serve a purpose of public or mutual benefit to society (the community). In money terms, a nonprofit does not have owners or directors who profit when revenue exceeds expenses. In other words, a nonprofit may make a "profit," but it does not distribute its profit to individuals within the organization as a for-profit organization would.

So, where does the "profit" go?

Right back to the organization. Revenue is used to further the organization's mission and goals. For example, the money would be used for next year's projects, productions, fees, bills, etc.

I haven't heard of The Layman Group, how long have you been around?

2009 is our first official year of existence, although we've been bubbling around the area, testing the waters since about 2007.

Why the name "LAYMAN?"

We wanted a name that represented our intentions of providing artistic opportunities and experiences to everyone within the community. This would mean appealing to the everyday unaccustomed individual, the "layman," as well.

So, are you just a production company?

Well, that's one aspect of The Layman Group, but hardly us in a nutshell. We focus on arts education, the incubation and support of artists' careers, expanding the appreciation for the Arts, promotion of artistic dialogue, as well as productions and projects within numerous mediums.

Does The Layman Group have focus outside of Lee County, Alabama?

Indeed we do! Although we are based out of Lee County, our goals and mission are dedicated to making an impact on the Arts throughout the entire state of Alabama. We've already had the pleasure of working/producing in a number of other cities across the state.

Are you a Youth Organization?

Not entirely. We love working with the youth, and have plenty of upcoming opportunities for youth ages. However, we are equally focused on provided artistic opportunities to all members of the community. This includes students, parents, mothers, fathers, full-time workers, and so on.

Are there any secondary divisions within The Layman Group?

So far, there is one designated company under the scope The Layman Group: The Geste Company of Dancers (our Contemporary Dance Company).

I have an artistic/creative idea I'd like to talk to you about. Is that ok?

NO! Just kidding. Absolutely! Just contact us at public@thelaymangroup.org and we will try to set up a time to sit and chat.

Do I need to be a professional artist to get involved with The Layman Group?

Although the term "professional" remains relative to some, all artists of any level of experience are welcomed to get involved with The Layman Group in some fashion.

So, why is The Layman Group necessary?

Well, we wouldn't be so necessary, if we didn't believe the benefits that the Arts provide to all people were truly necessary. The Layman Group is kind of like a sports agent, only for the Arts. It's our job to make everyone understand that without the Arts, they're losing out on million valuable opportunities. Those opportunities allow us all to cross social and economic boundaries, grow as understanding and tolerant individuals, as well as provide us with a broadened prospective of how the world around us works. But even that is just the tip of the iceberg!

How many major productions/projects will you do a year?

We're currently focused on producing three major ideas, with any number of smaller initiatives to complement the season. This does not include social or fundraising events.

What steps do you plan to take to incorporate diversity into your programming?

We believe the Arts should, on many levels, reflect the world we live in. That world is a very diverse and multifaceted world. In order to remain true to this belief, we will focus on maintaining a broad scope of research when developing our season projects, productions and programming. This means tapping into a wide range of cultures, ethnicities, and "ways of life", as well as incorporating a substantial amount of artistic work from women, artists with disabilities, and other under represented segments of society.

What are your educational opportunities?

We have plans to roll out a number of "workshop" format educational opportunities to both youth and adult members of our audience. The shorter workshop format allows us to present our classes in an intensive, unique style that affords most members of the community a chance to participate without having to commit to an unmanageable class schedule.

How do we support The Layman Group?

We've recently re-designed our giving opportunities! Visit our CONTRIBUTE link on our website and learn of the many ways you can support the Arts through our organization!

Are contributions to The Layman Group tax deductible?

Indeed they are! We are a nonprofit organization and our 501c3 status is obtained through our fiscal sponsor, Fractured Atlas. Read below:

The Layman Group is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions in behalf of The Layman Group may be made payable to Fractured Atlas and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

How do I stay up-to-date with everything you guys are doing?

Easy! Visit the website and join the EMAIL LIST. You can also follow us on Facebook or Twitter!

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