The Emporia Arts Council has received a $7,289-grant to help preserve a staff position as a part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The Kansas Arts Commission announced the grant. Grants were awarded to 12 Kansas arts and cultural organizations through the Kansas Arts Commission’s Grants for Kansas Arts Job Program.
“Funds for the program were provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 through the National Endowment for the Arts,” a press release stated.
Melissa Windsor, executive director for the Emporia Arts Council, said the money will be used to help fund a staff position.
“Given the current economic conditions, there have been changes in funding available to the arts council,” Windsor said. “We’re very fortunate to be able to apply for this fund. We’re really thrilled to be fortunate enough to get this funding. It’s always a challenge to get funding in these economic times.”
The Kansas Arts Commission received 52 applications for the funding. Of the 52 applying agencies, 30 were determined to be eligible for funding.
“The Kansas Arts Commission is proud to play a role in preserving jobs in the arts during this economic downturn,” said John Divine, chairman of the Kansas Arts Commission. “These funds will retain key employees for arts organizations and help facilitate a necessary boost to the economy in Kansas.
“It’s exciting that the economic impact of the arts are recognized by Washington and are included in the stimulus package,” Divine said. “As shown in a recent study, the nonprofit arts and cultural industry contributes $153.5 million into the Kansas economy.”