In 1998, Whitney Weston and Pierson Blaetz, two local theater producers, sought to create a bridge between arts and education that could have a measurable impact on the local community. They approached Fairfax High School with an innovative idea, which resulted in a valuable partnership.
Responding to drastic state budget cuts in education, they founded the renowned Melrose Trading Post (MTP), an antiques and collectibles flea market held every Sunday in the Fairfax High parking lot.
Governed by the Fairfax Parents & Friends Foundation (FPFF), the MTP is the most successful ongoing fundraiser in the history of the Los Angeles Unified School District. The revenue from the Trading Post provides valuable support for student and school activities not funded in the school budget.
The success of the trading post allowed Whitney and Pierson to truly realize their vision, resulting in the birth of Greenway Arts Alliance in 1999. Greenway’s mission is to build community support and provide arts education for underserved youth. Greenway Arts Alliance has become the umbrella organization overseeing all aspects of the Fairfax High partnership.
Responding to drastic state budget cuts in education, they founded the renowned Melrose Trading Post (MTP), an antiques and collectibles flea market held every Sunday in the Fairfax High parking lot.
Governed by the Fairfax Parents & Friends Foundation (FPFF), the MTP is the most successful ongoing fundraiser in the history of the Los Angeles Unified School District. The revenue from the Trading Post provides valuable support for student and school activities not funded in the school budget.
The success of the trading post allowed Whitney and Pierson to truly realize their vision, resulting in the birth of Greenway Arts Alliance in 1999. Greenway’s mission is to build community support and provide arts education for underserved youth. Greenway Arts Alliance has become the umbrella organization overseeing all aspects of the Fairfax High partnership.
