On Thursday, March 5^th, Culture Works kicked off the 2020 Campaign for the Arts, exactly one week before Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued an order prohibiting mass gatherings of 100 individuals or more. Within a short period of time, we have learned of schools closing, businesses encouraging their employees to work from home, and the rescheduling and cancellations of dozens of events and performances. It is indeed a stressful and challenging time for our community.

The health and well-being of all our friends and neighbors is our top priority. We encourage everyone to treat these public health strategies seriously as our elected officials work hard to stop the spread of COVID-19. Our hearts and thoughts go out to the people who have been affected. Please continue to practice proper hygiene and social distancing.

As the Dayton Region’s United Arts Fund and local arts agency, we are equally concerned about the impact these measures will have on local artists, arts organizations, and cultural institutions. Ticket sales and special events provide more than half of the financial support many groups need to go through their regular operations. Without that revenue stream, charitable donations become even more important.

The team at Culture Works is working with our corporate partners to meet the needs of local employees while still providing valuable donations to the Campaign for the Arts. We are also working with our nonprofit colleagues and other local leaders find options to support both artists and arts organizations who will be financially burdened by this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Our grant application processes and spring deadlines will remain unchanged, but should the need arise, we are prepared to conduct application review meetings virtually to ensure the health and safety of our volunteer panelists. All current grantees and applicants will receive ongoing updates by email, and information will also be made available on our website.

Lisa Hanson, Executive Director of Culture Works, says, “The need for an organization like Culture Works is more important now than ever. We encourage you to keep supporting the vibrant and creative talent we have in the Dayton Region. Together, we will meet this challenge and look forward to celebrating our future.”

We appreciate your understanding during this disruptive and challenging time. The Culture Works team will continue to monitor the spread and impact of COVID-19. We are committed to keeping you up to date on our organization’s actions throughout this crisis.

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ABOUT CULTURE WORKS

Culture Works is the funding, advocacy, and service organization that passionately inspires, supports, and sustains arts and culture in the Dayton Region. As the united arts fund and arts service agency for the Dayton Region, Culture Works believes that creating and maintaining a vibrant and attractive community filled with quality arts brings measurable and immeasurable value to our citizens. Those wishing to participate in this year’s campaign can give at their place of business, give online, or call 937.222.2787 to speak to a staff member to learn more.