The Performance Network Theatre recently announced its Summer 20/10 Matching Challenge to raise much-needed funds.

Together with the PNT staff, the Network's Board of Directors has assembled a matching fund of $20,000. Consequently, now through July 31, for every $20 donated, $10 will be added — a 50 percent match, up to $40,000.

The theater company's goal is to match every last penny and raise $60,000 by the end of the month, while also raising awareness about the ongoing financial needs of the organization.

Performance Network’s emergency campaign in April of 2009 pulled the theatre back from the brink of closing. Since then it has adopted numerous initiatives to maximize resources and keep the theatre open, such as its upcoming production of "Sonia Flew," which will be co-produced with the Jewish Ensemble Theatre to reduce that show’s costs by 25%. However, the Network's need for contributed income from the community is ongoing.

Network executive director Carla Milarch said in a press release, “Ticket sales pay for the shows; the actors, directors, costumes, etc. but that leaves about $400,000 each year that we still need to raise to keep the building open, pay staff salaries, and keep the lights on. I often tell people that the tickets pay for the shows, but their donations pay for the institution itself.”

The theater’s fiscal year closes Sept. 30, when it must have the funds secured to produce its upcoming season and navigate another difficult year in the Michigan economy. PNT is currently accepting donations of any size over the phone at 734-663-0681 and on the website at: www.performancenetwork.org.

In a press release, development associate Heather Meixler stated, “This challenge comes at a crucial point in our Development plan. We’re coming down to the end of the fiscal year on September 30th, which is a sort of financial finish line for us. We need people to give now and give generously, so the Board is going the extra mile to make that happen. It couldn’t be more timely.”

Milarch reiterates that gifts of all sizes are important: “In a new age of philanthropy, important major donors are joined by smaller sized gifts in a new model of fundraising. As evidenced by several online campaigns, millions of dollars are raised through donations of $5 and $10. The secret is the number, not the size.”

Jenn McKee is the entertainment digital journalist for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at jennmckee@annarbor.com or 734-623-2546, and follow her on Twitter @jennmckee.