Plano’s thriving arts community received a holiday boost this year as Plano Metropolitan Ballet (PMB) was named one of 19 North Texas nonprofits to receive a grant from Park Place Dealerships’ annual Season of Giving program. Nearly 600 charitable organizations applied for the 2025 grants, which support organizations that align with Park Place’s Four Pillars of Giving: Arts, Education, Advocacy and Medical Research.
For PMB — known for its long-running productions, rigorous training, and commitment to developing young dancers — the grant serves as both a financial lift and meaningful recognition of its role in bringing high-quality performing arts to Plano.
“With this year’s recipients, Park Place Dealerships has now awarded half a million dollars to 103 local nonprofits across North Texas since 2020,” said Kara Connor, community engagement manager for Park Place Dealerships. “Each of these nonprofits create lasting change in our community and we are happy to bring awareness to another 19 that typically don’t receive a lot of exposure.”
This season’s grant pool was among the most competitive yet, with hundreds of organizations vying for support, according to a news release. Under Park Place Cares, the company’s philanthropic arm, recipients receive a one-time grant ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on need and project scope. Each submission was reviewed by a committee of Park Place Members.
For Plano Metropolitan Ballet, the grant will help further its mission to nurture young performers and present original productions that draw families and audiences from across the region. PMB has grown into a cornerstone of Plano’s cultural scene, known for its annual fairy-tale ballets and pre-professional dance training.
Park Place leaders say supporting arts organizations like PMB is essential to cultivating vibrant, connected communities.
“There are so many incredible non-profits that are driving meaningful change across North Texas,” said Matt Woolsey, area vice president for Park Place Dealerships. “Our team is committed to being a great partner to strengthen our community. It’s wonderful to see our Members embrace the spirit of giving, which allows Park Place to extend its impact far beyond our dealership walls.”
Plano Metropolitan Ballet joins this year’s cohort of 19 grant recipients, which include Adriana’s Angels, Be the Difference, Elmwood Farm, EmpowerPix, Evergreen Life Services, Families to Freedom, Friends of Rescue Animals, Frisco Fastpacs, Givingmas, Hearts for Homes, Little Hearts of Hope, Living Hope, Refresh NTX, The Love Pit, The Way Back, Why Not You, Young Women’s Preparatory and FYT Wellness.
As Park Place marks five years and more than half a million dollars awarded through Season of Giving, the dealership said it plans to continue expanding the program and spotlighting organizations that may not always receive widespread attention.
For PMB, the recognition underscores the vital role local arts organizations play in shaping Plano’s creative identity and ensures that more young dancers can take the stage in the seasons ahead.
