The Primary Movers: The study of a contemporary non-profit

This thesis explores why a small non-profit organization faced administrative and monetary crises in the political and economic climate of the 1990s. The Primary Movers, located in Washington, DC, was a nonprofit dance studio for children of all ages under the direction of Rima Faber. An analysis of The Primary Movers provides answers for other non-profit arts organizations that are facing similar issues. The Primary Movers had a reputation for artistic excellence before closing in 1997. But the organization faced many challenges over the years, including loss of clientele due to relocation, denial of funding, fluctuating enrollment and lack of funds to hire an administration staff. The question answered here is why The Primary Movers was unable to survive and what could have been done to save this quality organization. The issues explored include fundraising, organizational vision, board support, maintaining student enrollment, securing administrative support, audience development and media support.