Amplifi Napa Valley, formerly known as Napa Valley Presents, and Napa Valley Performing Arts Foundation are thrilled to announce the founding of the Belle & Barney Rhodes Fund for Performing Arts. This landmark donation from NVPAF to Amplifi amounts to over $950,000 and will support grants that encourage musical education, opportunities, and exposure, with an emphasis on youth.
Since 2014, the Napa Valley Performing Arts Foundation has stewarded funds from the late Belle and Barney Rhodes, awarding grants to local nonprofit performance activities. As the Foundation looked to close operations, it sought to identify a new home for the funds and for its mission. “The Rhodes were ardent supporters of the arts, and their legacy will continue to thrive through this newly awarded fund,” shared past President Susan Hafleigh. “The Board recognized a perfect alignment with Amplifi Napa Valley’s mission to support the community, including local youth, dedicated to cultivating their artistic talents.”
Valerie Gargiulo, niece and Executor of the Rhodes estate expressed her enthusiasm about the new chapter with Amplifi. “It is a well-thought-out plan and best for the monies to be put to the highest and best use. We have been good stewards of Barney and Belle’s generosity, and they would be pleased with our thoughtful decision to create an even greater impact. I salute those who used your time and talent to protect the endowment when it was vulnerable.” Gargiulo is joining the Board of Directors of Amplifi.
Formed two years ago under the name Napa Valley Presents, Amplifi Napa Valley is a nonprofit that delivers strategic investments to amplify Napa Valley as a hub for live performance and innovative cultural experiences. The organization’s new 3-year plan focuses on cultivating and amplifying emerging local talent through grants for showcase activities, industry collaboration, artistic development, and opportunities that advance diverse voices and perspectives. Amplifi has quickly become a key player in empowering talent and accelerating live performance in Napa County.
“The board is incredibly excited to support the Belle & Barney Rhodes Fund for Performing Arts,” shared Drew Becher, Chair of the Amplifi Napa Valley board. “This partnership not only honors the Rhodes’ legacy but also strengthens our commitment to fostering a rich live performance scene in Napa Valley.”
The new fund and strategic plan were announced at a private event hosted by Suzanne Deal Booth, arts patron and current proprietor of Bella Oaks (also founded by Belle and Barney Rhodes). An intimate group of local arts and entertainment leaders attended and were treated to performances by the Napa Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra’s Chamber Ensemble and Amplifi’s first Young Artist Grant recipient, singer-songwriter Andrea Claribel Coca Barerra.
