In Our Neighborhood Grant Program

Partners: CultureSource and Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation

Geographic Scope: Washtenaw County

Program Purpose: Support arts and culture projects in Washtenaw County "neighborhoods" (geography, identity, or affinity) and have positive impact on local economy. Particularly interested in neighborhoods existing outside dominant narrative of arts and culture in Washtenaw County.

2018 Award Winners:

• Youth Arts Alliance: Workshops and Camps for Young Cultural Leaders (restorative opportunities for artists transitioning from juvenile justice system)
• Ballet Chelsea: Adaptive Dance Program (for those with physical, mental, cognitive disabilities)
• Julie Quiroz, Maria Ibarra, Desiraé Simmons, Catalina Rios, Tanya Reza: Untold Stories of Liberation and Love (participatory narrative project with women of color)
• Yen and Nick Azzaro with Ypsilanti Community Schools: Y-Fi: Amplifying Voice with Fidelity (art happenings addressing social themes)

Program Background: 2018 initial round was successful; second round opened in October 2019

Application Process

Information Sessions (October 2019):

• Information sessions held but not required for application submission
• Sessions locations: Ypsilanti District Library, The Back Office Studio, Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation

Application Requirements:

• Project proposal describing arts/culture project
• Explanation of "neighborhood" focus (geography, identity, or affinity)
• Description of positive local economic impact
• Why project falls outside dominant arts narrative in Washtenaw County
• Contact information

Eligibility:

• Individuals and nonprofits eligible
• Projects must support arts and culture
• Must serve Washtenaw County neighborhoods