Who We Are

The Cultural Arts Society of Fuquay-Varina (CASF-V) was founded in 2003 by local resident Romie Burt Jr. with the help of Mayor John Byrne and a group of dedicated citizens of the community who have been, and continue to be, passionate about celebrating the diversity of the citizenry of our town. The idea came about after Mr. Burt and Mayor Byrne traveled to Dunn to attend a Black History event. It was on the ride home that the idea of forming a committee to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. here in Fuquay-Varina was born. In 2004, the committee received 501(c)(3) status, and has been organizing MLK Celebrations every year since with themes ranging from history to current events to personal responsibility.

In the early years, CASF-V also hosted Diversity Festivals. In 2019, the board of directors resurrected the idea of the Diversity Festivals by kicking off its first International Cultural Festival at the new Fuquay- Varina Arts Center. Planning for the 2023 International Cultural Festival is already underway, and the board hopes to grow this event into a significant and beloved celebration of cultural diversity in our own community. Until this year, project financing has come from donations from local merchants, organization members, banks, and churches in the form of cash, food, and transportation.

Beginning in 2019, the organization began seeking sponsors for its events, and has launched a more professional fundraising program. As a working board, CASF-V continues to seek members who have an interest and a willingness to commit to the purpose and goals of the organization. Click the “Become a Member” link at the bottom of this page and fill out our application form to be considered for a Board position or to volunteer your time at either of our major events in 2023.