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ORLANDO, Fla. - United Arts of Central Florida has announced an investment of $2.45 million in more than 60 local nonprofits in the area to help nurture the arts and culture scene.
United Arts of Central Florida leaders say they approved the grants Dec. 11 to help ensure the arts, history and science organizations continue to thrive and fulfill their missions in Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.
"In a season of great need, we stand firm in our commitment to the arts, science and history organizations, as well as individual artists, in our region, said Jennifer Evins, president and CEO of United Arts of Central Florida. "The $2.45 million in grant support will empower nonprofits to innovate and thrive, ensuring cultural experiences remain accessible to everyone — from our neighbors to visitors from across the globe. Together, we are building a vibrant cultural future for Central Florida, and we could not be more proud to be Central Florida’s local arts agency."
United Arts of Central Florida has announced an investment of $2.45 million in 62 local nonprofits. (Credit: United Arts of Central Florida)
The grant recipients include…
- The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens
- Art and History Museums of Maitland
- Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts Inc.
- Central Florida Ballet, Inc.
- Downtown Arts District
- Enzian Theater
- HAPCO Music Foundation Inc.
- Opera Orlando
- Theatre South Playhouse
- Winter Garden Heritage Foundation
United Arts of Central Florida leaders say the grants are a big deal amid continued funding cuts.
The funding will help to empower nonprofits, support diversity, address urgent needs and leave an impactful legacy, officials report.
"Being a small nonprofit theater surrounded by so many larger arts organizations, (it) can be a challenge to be seen and heard," said Hillary Brook, executive director of Theatre South Playhouse. "Being recognized by the United Arts of Central Florida for our creative achievements and having them believe in our potential for growth is a huge compliment and much needed during these turbulent times."
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Last year, United Arts of Central Florida says the grants….
- Enabled 42 arts organizations to mount 2,628 exhibitions and productions
- Created 19,715 opportunities to engage with the arts
- Provided access and arts education to 492,956 school-aged youth
- Attracted 2,158,606 guests
- Supported 424 full-time and 243 part-time staff positions
- Engaging 6,107 artists in the local arts ecosystem
United Arts of Central Florida officials say the application process for the grant program includes rigorous multi-level vetting to ensure accountability and excellence.
To learn more information and to view the full list of grantees, click here.
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The Source: The information in this article comes from the United Arts of Central Florida and was shared with FOX 35 News.