Dozens of nonprofit organizations focused on art and culture will receive nearly $5 million in funding to advance and support what’s happening locally.
Thanks to the voter-approved “Tacoma Creates,” a wide range of public-first art and culture initiatives will begin to touch city residents. It’s part of the city’s vision to spark creativity and inspire all residents.
The public programs in the arts, heritage and science will include summer youth events. Altogether, 58 cultural organizations will get financial support. You can see the full list of organizations here. As nonprofits, they work with people of all ages and are committed to equity and inclusion, giving opportunities to all members of the community.
The funding will also help develop local artists by exposing them to world-class performances and exhibitions. The community at-large will also benefit from expanded access to the arts.
Other examples of the benefitting programs include Alchemy Skateboarding, Spaceworks Tacoma and the Tacoma Refugee Choir.
Project managers believe the artistic and cultural outlets help strengthen social connections and cohesion among the public — especially as more people seek out in-person events. So, there’s a lot of excitement over what’s in store on the arts and cultural fronts in Tacoma.
Residents can also look forward to more community festivals and cultural presentations at library branches and other public spaces.
The following goals are based on the broad program categories that received consideration for funding:
- Support public art, culture and heritage that benefits the community.
- Increase access, take down barriers to these programs.
- Lift up specific communities and underrepresented people.
- Focus on youth education in arts, culture, heritage and science.
- Help with sustainability efforts.
Funding for Tacoma Creates is made possible by local sales tax payments. The voter initiative passed in November 2018.
Core residents in local neighborhoods are targeted for community enhancements through art and culture. Tacoma Creates dedicates more than half of the funding for programming within neighborhoods to increase youth and community engagement. Students enrolled in Tacoma public schools will receive about 8% of the funding to help with transportation needs.
Other funds will pay for technical assistance and facilities for local nonprofits to use for events and outreach. All funds benefit the public in some form and promote their participation in culture programs and happenings around Tacoma.
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