The ReadingFilmFEST is the recipient of a $35,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The money will support the festival’s development initiatives, including production, marketing and promotion, and year-round administrative expenses.
“It is vitally important to support the arts when considering community and economic development, which is why I advocated for ReadingFilmFEST in this grant process,” Sen. Judy Schwank said.
“In just a few years, this festival has established a tremendous reputation for quality events that support artists and has brought positive attention into our city and county.”
The funding comes as a relief to the newly established nonprofit organization, which also endured financial loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ReadingFilmFEST was able to persevere, in part due to collaborative efforts and the successful launch of last year’s hybrid festival.
Now in its seventh year, the festival continues to support emerging filmmakers, enhance local art culture and encourage spending in the local community through the following opportunities: FiveMinuteFilmFEST, women and minority screenplay competition, independent premiere film releases, summer Mini-FilmFEST, LunaFEST, and other events.
“ReadingFilmFEST is encouraged by the unified support and collaboration within the community to build a more robust, more vibrant Reading post-COVID. Our focus as a new nonprofit is to create an even more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive film community,” Executive Director Cammie Harris said.
In early 2021, ReadingFilmFEST became its own entity, establishing a board of directors and an advisory council, including past contributors, organizers, and community leaders. Local partnerships will also ensure the festival’s continued viability as an important community event.
ReadingFilmFEST will occur September 30-October 3, 2021, and features indoor, outdoor and online screenings for filmmakers and audiences to safely enjoy.
