Broad Array of Grants to Strengthen Communities Through Libraries, Arts, Economic Resilience, Education, and Other Initiatives
January 29, 2013
The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation announced a diverse new funding cycle that includes 61 grants in the areas of libraries, arts, economic aid, education, and science. The $6.9 million will fund projects that are expected to impact more than 2.6 million people.
Strengthening Local Libraries' Long-Term Relationships with Patrons
Supporting modern library initiatives is a vital component of the Foundation's work. "Strong public libraries help build thriving communities," said Susan M. Coliton, the Foundation's vice president. New grants will help revamp the physical layouts of libraries, strengthen relationships between librarians and patrons, and develop smartphone apps to engage young people and rural communities. See how innovative programs are transforming libraries.
A Tapestry of Arts Funding
Arts and culture funding will stretch across rural and urban organizations working in visual art, film, theater, music and more, from Homer, Alaska to Helena, Montana. The Boise Art Museum in Idaho will receive a programming grant for Nicholas Kahn and Richard Selesnick's futuristic multimedia exhibit, "Mars: Revisited." In Anchorage, Alaska, the Native-operated Koahnic Broadcast Corporation will receive funding for "Earthsongs," a radio program that explores Native influences in contemporary music. Festivals, installations, audience research and other projects will be funded in Seattle, Portland, and beyond.
Support for Low-Income Communities
The Foundation's asset building program helps reach low-income people in rural areas, members of Native communities, immigrants and refugees. Nearly 250 individuals will get assistance on how to start a new small business. United Indians of All Tribes will develop and deliver comprehensive financial education to Native homeless youth, and parents of children in Head Start. In rural Oregon, Bienestar will train low-income Latinos in food service in a new commercial kitchen.
Additional funding in this grants cycle will support Native nonprofits in Montana, a brain research exhibit at Seattle's Pacific Science Center, sustainable land use in Botswana and Zambia, and many other projects. View the full grants press release.