Advocate. Educate. Celebrate... the Power of Volunteers
Since 1972, OVI has continued its mission of offering support for individuals, opera companies,
schools of music and local opera support organizations through
grants, awards, networking,
resource databases
and education.
Opera Volunteers International is
a leading nonprofit volunteer organization that advocates for
and serves volunteerism in opera throughout North America
Ever-expanding, new initiatives are available for our esteemed members throughout North America.
Read more about OVI’s history and purpose.
GReeTings!
WelcOme To OVi
Every quarter, OVI celebrates
a member who makes a difference
in their community through opera education, advocacy and volunteerism.
WHY OVi?
OVI offers many member benefits, including our expanding, exciting new initiatives and perks!
Our support includes:
Matching Grants
Awards (for individuals and groups)
Annual Arts Admin and Management Webinar Series
Interviews and Podcasts
Online Knowledge Base
Quarterly Newsletters
Annual Convention
Operatober and World Opera Day Events
A community of Volunteer Management Professionals
Making a Difference
Each year, OVI provides matching grant funds for volunteer-led opera initiatives that bring opera and opera-tunities to underserved communities, students, and young artists throughout North America, touching thousands of lives in the process. Whether it's a national-level opera house training its volunteers, an opera guild providing children in underserved communities opportunities to see their first opera, or a micro nonprofit starting their education outreach program... OVI offers inclusive support on all levels.
Check out our Member Spotlight Page and our Grants & Awards Pages to see the far-reaching impact our members have on their communities!
OVI in Action
Members share their inspiring stories and experiences with how OVI helped
their organizations touch lives in their communities:
Lisa H., Opera Omaha Guild
"I joined OVI to learn more about what volunteers are doing around the country, and bring those new ideas back to our guild. Now I'm sharing the successful fundraising events we have held!"
Katherine J., The Niagara Arts and Cultural Center
"The Niagara Arts and Cultural Center is extremely thankful to Opera Volunteers International for your support of opera at the NACC. Your support allows us to offer programming received with joy in the community, continuing the legacy of opera here, as the NACC has been building opera audiences since its inception in the year 2000."