Title
Inspire Olympia Cultural Access Funding Program Update
Recommended Action
Information only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Briefing on Inspire Olympia Cultural Access Funding Program to date.
Staff Contact:
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program & Planning Supervisor, Parks, Arts & Recreation, 360.709.2678
Presenter(s):
Marygrace Goddu, Inspire Olympia Cultural Access Program Manager
Background and Analysis:
Inspire Olympia is a voter-approved initiative that dedicates a portion of Olympia’s sales tax to local nonprofit organizations offering arts, sciences, heritage, and cultural programs and experiences for the public in Olympia and the Olympia School District.
This multi-year public investment seeks to strengthen our community’s cultural sector to expand access to quality arts and cultural experiences in Olympia, especially for youth and traditionally underserved populations. Funding is based on a competitive application process and is distributed through contracts for services with the City of Olympia. Contracts will go to those organizations that best demonstrate how their arts, culture, heritage, and/or science programs benefit people and communities in Olympia.
Ms. Goddu will provide an update on the program as it enters the final week of the very first application deadline:
January 15
• Applications open online
March 15
• Application deadline
Spring
• Grant awards announced, contracts signed
Climate Analysis:
While specific grants provided may address climate change, in general the Inspire Olympia Cultural Access Funding Program will not positively or negatively impact climate and the environment.
Equity Analysis:
Equity and access are at the forefront of the Inspire Olympia Cultural Access Funding Program. Equity can be enhanced by making cultural programs and experiences readily available to people and populations traditionally excluded due to barriers like cost, transportation, prejudice, accessibility, and systemic inequalities. Equity is also advanced by making programs available in public schools, ensuring that everyone can participate in high-quality extra-curricular learning such as musical instruction, dance lessons, or robotics.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
N/A
Options:
Receive the presentation and participate in discussion.
Financial Impact:
Inspire Olympia Cultural Access Funding Program is funded by a portion of Olympia’s sales tax.
Attachments:
Inspire Olympia Cultural Access Funding Program Website