Tool #6: The local impact
When the arts thrive, our communities thrive and become more desirable places to live, work, go to school, raise a family, start and grow a business, and so much more. Yes, your arts programs can and should attract out-of-towners if you are receiving HOT funds, but the impact in your own backyard is equally valuable.
Building partnerships with local leaders—in business, government, and the arts—is a great way to stay connected with the community’s needs and identify ways your programs can support efforts to meet those needs.
Reach out to your elected officials and schedule an office meeting to introduce them to the work you’re doing. This is a terrific opportunity to find out how they view the arts and the importance of arts programming.
Do the same with fellow arts leaders and local business owners who have shown a desire to support the creative community in your town. Whether it’s the bookseller who regularly hosts readings by local authors, or the coffee shop owner who has turned her walls into a gallery of local visual art, these are the people in your community from whom you’ll benefit by strengthening ties—and they will appreciate your outreach. Be sure to follow-up with a thank you and an invitation to your next event, as appropriate.
Toolkit Tip:
These connections will also serve you well when you’re ready to ask for letters of support for your HOT funding application.
Case Studies:
Check out the Case Studies below for real world examples of Tool #6:
