Lincoln & Gilbert Small Business Relief Grants

The Asheville Area Arts Council's Arts for Schools grant program aims to provide in-school arts programming for students attending economically disadvantaged schools in Buncombe County and the City of Asheville K-12 public school system. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to support arts education and ensure access to enriching artistic experiences for all students, particularly those in underserved communities. For a limited time, the program also extends support to arts-focused after-school and camp programs, demonstrating a broader commitment to arts accessibility outside of traditional school hours. The target beneficiaries of this grant are K-12 students in Buncombe County and City of Asheville public schools, with a specific focus on those attending economically disadvantaged schools. The program seeks to impact students by providing free arts-focused performances, workshops, residencies, and field trips. The ultimate goal is to enhance arts education and foster artistic engagement among students who might otherwise lack such opportunities due to economic barriers. The extension to after-school and camp programs further broadens the reach and potential impact on youth development through the arts. The program prioritizes applicants located in Buncombe County for at least one year and requires them to be either a 501c3 nonprofit arts organization or a qualified teaching artist. Qualified teaching artists must possess a BA or BFA in their specific art form, or equivalent training and experience, along with at least five years of experience in arts education. All programs must serve students in Buncombe County or City of Asheville K-12 public schools, be free for students and schools, and align with North Carolina’s Common Core curriculum and Essential Standards. These criteria ensure that the funding supports high-quality, accessible, and educationally relevant arts programming. Expected outcomes include an increase in arts participation and appreciation among students, improved access to arts education in economically disadvantaged schools, and the development of artistic skills and creative thinking. Measurable results for in-school programs range from $500-$2,000, and for out-of-school programs, from $500-$5,000. Programs must take place between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. For in-school programs, a school partnership agreement form is required. For out-of-school programs, applicants are ineligible if they already receive funding for the proposed arts-focused program from Dogwood Health Trust’s WNC After 3pm initiative. For camps, only 501c3 nonprofit arts organizations may apply. The Asheville Area Arts Council's strategic priorities are centered on fostering a vibrant arts community and ensuring equitable access to arts education. Their theory of change posits that by investing in arts programming for students, particularly in underserved areas, they can contribute to positive educational outcomes, personal development, and community enrichment. The emphasis on qualified artists and alignment with educational standards underscores their commitment to effective and impactful arts interventions. This grant program is a direct manifestation of their belief in the transformative power of the arts for young people.