Buddy’s Arcade Donates $4,000 to Launch Arts in Education of the Gorge Program at Cascade Locks Elementary

Jan 8

Written By Columbia Community Connection

From Buddy's Arcade:

By Albert Nance

Cascade Locks, Ore., Jan. 7, 2026 — Buddy’s Arcade, a beloved local business in Cascade Locks, has donated $4,000 to the Arts in Education of the Gorge organization to establish an art program at Cascade Locks Elementary School.

The donation will directly support Cascade Locks Elementary students by bringing professional artists from the Cascade Locks community into the school. Allowing students to learn directly from these artists fosters creativity, cultural connection, and self-expression while strengthening ties between the school and the broader community.

This contribution holds special significance for the community. In April, Buddy’s Arcade was the victim of a robbery. In response, area artists and community members rallied around the business, contributing funds through a GoFundMe campaign to help Buddy’s Arcade recover. Rather than using those funds for business restoration, Buddy’s Arcade chose to reinvest the support back into the community's students—specifically into the art education and creative growth of local children.

“We were overwhelmed by the generosity and care the community showed us. We believe in the win-win-win. So it's our way of paying that kindness forward, supporting the students, and showcasing artists of Cascade Locks.” said Albert Nance, Owner of Buddy’s Arcade. “Art is central to our mission and we believe representation matters. This initiative gives our students an opportunity to learn from local artists they already see in town, creating that 'a-ha' moment of art being all around us, and artistry being a viable and fulfilling lifelong endeavor. Ultimately, it strengthens the fabric of our community."

Arts in Education of the Gorge officials expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that partnerships like this help expand access to meaningful arts education and highlight the powerful role community support plays in student success.