VIPAM Awarded Contract to Manage the Venice Community Center
A New Chapter for One of Venice’s Most Beloved Community Gathering Places
The Venice Institute for Performing Arts Management (VIPAM) is proud to announce that it has been awarded the contract by the City of Venice to manage the Venice Community Center, effective October 1, 2026.
Following a competitive proposal process, VIPAM received the highest evaluation score and was selected to oversee the operation and management of the City’s iconic community gathering place. This milestone reflects the City’s confidence in VIPAM’s proven leadership, community partnerships, and successful management of the Venice Performing Arts Center.
“Our organization has deep roots in this community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the City to ensure the Venice Community Center reaches its fullest potential,” said Michael Hartley, Co-Founder and President of the VIPAM Board. “Our vision is to create a welcoming destination for residents and organizations, a source of civic pride, and a vibrant venue for performing arts, cultural programming, community celebrations, meetings, and special events.”
Building on a Legacy of Community
For decades, the Venice Community Center has been a place where people gather to celebrate milestones, connect with neighbors, attend cultural events, and strengthen community bonds. VIPAM is honored to continue that tradition while expanding opportunities for residents, businesses, nonprofits, and visitors to experience everything the Center has to offer.
Drawing on nearly a decade of successfully managing the Venice Performing Arts Center, VIPAM brings extensive expertise in venue operations, event management, community programming, and nonprofit leadership. The organization’s focus will be on:
- Expanding community programming
- Strengthening partnerships with local organizations
- Enhancing accessibility and customer service
- Supporting arts and cultural experiences
- Creating memorable celebrations, meetings, and special events
- Preserving the Center’s legacy while preparing it for future generations
Assistant City Manager Roger Omenheiser shared the City’s confidence in the partnership:
“The Venice Community Center has long been an important gathering place for our community. With VIPAM’s demonstrated success over several years managing the Venice Performing Arts Center for Sarasota County Schools, the City is confident that this partnership will provide an outstanding entertainment and special events venue at a great value to the community.”
Transition Underway
VIPAM officially assumes management on October 1, 2026, and transition planning is already in progress.
Our team is working closely with the City of Venice to ensure a seamless transition by contacting current event organizers and individuals or organizations that have requested reservations for dates after September 30.
Planning an Event?
Reservations for events taking place on or after October 1, 2026, are now being accepted.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, celebration, business meeting, nonprofit fundraiser, conference, community gathering, or cultural event, the Venice Community Center offers a beautiful and welcoming venue in the heart of Venice.
To learn more or submit a reservation request, visit VeniceCommunityCenter.com or contact:
Eli Jason
Director of Community Outreach
📧 eli.jason@vipam.org
📞 941-218-3779, ext. 108
Looking Ahead
“We are excited to partner with the City of Venice as we begin this new chapter for the Venice Community Center,” said Derek Blankenship, Executive Director of VIPAM. “Our goal is to create a vibrant community gathering place that brings residents, businesses, and organizations together while fostering connection, engagement, and civic pride.”
As VIPAM begins this exciting journey, our commitment remains centered on serving the community. We look forward to preserving the Venice Community Center’s rich history while expanding its role as a dynamic destination for arts, culture, education, celebrations, meetings, and lifelong community engagement.
Together, we’re creating a place where Venice comes together.
