Why support the ArtsinStark campaign? Because it's an investment in the Stark community
Our community is brimming with cultural richness and artistic vibrancy.
In fact, a study conducted last year by the National Center for Arts Research named the Canton-Massillon community as the eighth most arts-vibrant mid-size community in the United States. In order to maintain and grow this arts-vibrancy, it is important that we, as a community, rally support around our county arts campaign.
For more than 50 years, ArtsinStark has been an anchor of the Stark County community; dedicated to elevating the arts for all people of all ages.
This nonprofit organization has several key roles. ArtsinStark operates the iconic Cultural Center for the Arts that is home to the Canton Museum of Art, Canton Ballet, Sing Stark and the Cultural Theater. ArtsinStark also provides support to the community’s seven major arts groups, including those housed at the Cultural Center along with Canton Symphony Orchestra, Massillon Museum, Canton Palace Theatre and the Bluecoats. And, ArtsinStark provides vital grants for hundreds of local artists and nonprofit organizations.
In order to provide this financial support to organizations and individuals, ArtsinStark turns to the community for support of its annual arts campaign. This year, ArtsinStark is committed to growing its impact and has set a campaign fundraising goal of $1.4 million.
When you support the campaign, you are helping to address community challenges and opportunities. ArtsinStark grants and support are focused on three primary areas: Arts and Education, Arts and Well-being, and Arts and Vitality.
Arts and Education
Lifelong arts education is a focus of ArtsinStark.
One example of arts and education in action is the local SmARTs program. SmARTs provides innovative curriculum to all Stark County’s school districts. Area artists work with classroom teachers to blend arts with traditional academics.
The results are impressive. Students who have participated in the SmARTs program showed a 20 percentage point increase in test scores. SmARTs and other educational programs demonstrate how the arts are fundamental to a well-rounded education, nurturing creativity, critical thinking and cultural awareness.
By supporting the Stark County arts campaign, the community invests in the next generation of artists, innovators and leaders.
Arts and Well-being
Engaging with the arts has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced stress, enhanced cognitive function and improved overall well-being.
By investing in the arts, Stark County promotes the health and happiness of its residents. Programming across Stark County provides arts as a means to help heal.
Outreach like the Canton Museum of Art’s Art for Health and Healing Program offers unique art therapy services to area residents struggling with physical or mental health issues. Whether it is by creating art or simply being an observer, Stark County residents have plentiful opportunities for social connection and community engagement, reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.
Arts and Vitality
By supporting the county arts campaign, the community fuels economic prosperity. Art equates to economic impact here in Stark County.
Beyond its cultural significance, the Stark County arts campaign is a driving force behind economic growth and revitalization. Studies have consistently shown that investment in the arts yields substantial returns, stimulating tourism, attracting businesses and generating employment opportunities. Last year, cultural tourism efforts generated $21.5 million of economic impact to our community.
By supporting ArtsinStark, residents contribute to educational enrichment, community well-being and economic growth of Stark County. Now more than ever, it is essential that Stark County comes together to invest in its artistic legacy, ensuring that the arts continue to thrive and flourish for generations to come.
Please consider a gift to the ArtsinStark annual arts campaign. Your support of the campaign is not just a donation; it's an investment in our community.
Donate online at ArtsinStark.com/DONATE or reach out to ArtsinStark at 330-409-7607 to find out how you or your company can help support the arts-vibrancy of Stark County.
Emil Alecusan is an 18-year member of the ArtsinStark board and is serving as interim CEO. Maureen Ater is the incoming CEO of ArtsinStark.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: ArtsinStark 2024 fundraising campaign is investing in community
