When it comes to support of the arts in South Jersey, Lockheed Martin is a willing participant. Seldom does it say no.

With five facilities in South Jersey, the Maryland-based corporation has been giving financial or in-kind support since the 1950s when it was a part of RCA.

"We know it affects the quality of life of our employees and our corporate neighbors in and around the Delaware Valley," said Wendy A. Owen, spokeswoman for Lockheed Martin Technology Services in Cherry Hill.

"We've found it's really critical in retaining and bringing new employees to an area when the arts are as vibrant and exciting as they are here in South Jersey."

Lockheed Martin is a global enterprise principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services for government and commercial customers. It employs about 7,000 people in South Jersey, and 136,000 worldwide.

Looking over the Cooper River from her second-floor office, Owen said all five South Jersey facilities have the option of supporting the arts, and that each one does in some manner.

ty is well aware of the company's generosity and that it does not shy away from knocking on the door. About 20 South Jersey organizations and 200 worldwide benefit annually from its largess.

Among those is the Haddonfield Symphony, which fears the arts community would suffer a severe setback should Lockheed Martin ever opt to end its support.

The symphony has received help from the corporation since 1978 and last year received a grant of $35,000.

"They're one of our top four funders, but that's just the tip of the iceberg," said Eileen Myers, the symphony's director of development. "They also provide manpower to back up their financial contributions, and there aren't too many corporations that do that."

Myers said Michael F. Camardo, president of Lockheed Martin Technology Services, also serves as president of the symphony board, and that Lockheed Martin employees routinely serve as ushers at symphony-sponsored children's concerts.

"They're a beacon for many of the other corporate entities in South Jersey," she said.

In addition to Cherry Hill, the corporation has facilities in Camden, Mount Laurel, Moorestown and Atlantic City.

"They come to us," Owen said of the numerous organizations that seek assistance. "Every year we get a certain budget number, look at all the proposals that have come in and then make our decisions.

"It's very much focused on what we think is best for our employee base. Basically, the process continues on a rolling basis throughout the year."

The Atlantic City Ballet Theater Co., the Westmont Theatre Company and "just about every museum you can possibly imagine" are among the many other local groups that are befriended annually by Lockheed Martin.

Though nothing has been announced, Owen said the Appel Farm Arts and Music Center in rural Elmer, Salem County, probably will benefit from her employer's generosity this year. "We're looking to provide some Rising Artist Scholarships for them, and it probably will happen this year," she said.

There is no deadline for requesting assistance, Owen stressed.

"There's always a chance to obtain funding," she said. "If you're looking for money and would like to send us a proposal, we'll certainly give you every consideration." For guidelines on applying, click on www.lockheedmartin.com and follow the links.

Owen said Lockheed Martin is a firm believer in community involvement, and that the company is not about to waver on its commitment to the arts.

"As a good citizen, it is absolutely our responsibility to give," she said. "The community has been great to us, and we absolutely believe that giving back is not only our requirement or commitment, but also that it's the right thing to do."