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Become a member today so we can share, celebrate and champion our artists, creative workers and businesses. Membership matters! To read more about benefits and membership options, click here.
Keeping Audiences, Artists and Staff Safe with Current COVID and Vaccination policies.
If you are an organization or venue that has or is continually redrafting COVID and vaccine safety policies, you are in good company. Arts & cultural audiences WANT policies and many won't attend an in person event without a proof of vaccination requirement according to the Audience Outlook Monitor's Sept. 20 report.
Creative Washtenaw is collecting and posting local arts organizations' policies and protocol surrounding entry into venues and spaces.
Send yours or a link to info@creativewashtenaw.org
We will aggregate what we find and place this information on our website - - stay tuned!
In the meantime, the National Council of Nonprofits put together an article explaining new federal policies on vaccination and testing mandates, with a special focus on nonprofit considerations. Read it here.
Read also: COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements - Consideration for Nonprofits - Pros/Cons, Vaccination Policy Suggestions etc.
Support the Creative Economy Revitalization Act (CERA)! The Creative Economy Revitalization Act would get creative workers back into jobs by creating a competitive workforce grants program within the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
Seeking Co-sponsors: Ask Your Representative
We urge you to ask your member(s) of Congress to sign on to H.R. 5019 as a co-sponsor to support the creative economy!
On Taking Action:
Please sign this email; it increases momentum to resubmit from different email addresses! To support this bill, sign this Endorsement of Creative Economy Revitalization Act. Click here to read the proposal. Click here for the official release from Rep. Leger Fernandez announcing the introduction of the bill. Representatives Haley Stevens (D-MI), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Lisa McClain (R-MI) sit on the Education and Labor Committee and need to hear from you that they should actively take up (and vote to move forward) the Creative Economy Revitalization Act.
Infographics to Share!
More Resources from Put Creative Workers to Work.The bill has been directed to the House Committee on Education and Labor! Your Action Needed. There is an entire toolkit with social images and documents to review. You can find it here. On Sept. 10, a Get Creative Workers Working meeting took place in conversation with Representative Leger Fernandez and her staff. Please watch the video so you can learn more about CERA and how to get involved.
The Department of Labor, in coordination with the National Endowment for the Arts, would administer the grants eligible to government, nonprofit, for-profit organizations and state and local workforce boards. The Creative Economy Revitalization Act would require that grantees create art that is public and accessible to the entire community such as free concert series, large-scale murals, photography exhibits, published stories or dance performances.
Get an Early Start:
Apply for FY22 Arts Project Minigrant Round 2!
Application Deadline Jan. 15, 2022
Arts & Cultural Projects Minigrants provide special opportunities to address local arts and cultural needs. These projects connect communities with the world by exploring, sharing and supporting creative expression. By doing so, they promote the health and well-being of communities and citizens throughout Michigan. MCACA believes that sharing creative experiences and expressing creativity build powerful connections between people, in our communities, in the world around us and in ourselves.
For more information, please click here to review the Minigrant Arts Project guidelines. Further information and materials can be found on our website here. For updates on Round 2, subscribe here to our newsletter.
Now Accepting:
FY22 Michigan K-12 School Arts Equipment & Supplies Grants
Michigan K-12 schools are eligible for grants of up to $1,500 to pay for arts equipment (including repairs of arts equipment) or supplies being used within the classroom/school setting. Michigan K-12 teachers in any arts discipline may apply for the grant including creative writing, dance, film/video, music, visual arts and theater. Grants are awarded on a reimbursement basis.
FY22 Michigan K-12 School Arts & Culture Trek (Bus) Grants
Michigan K-12 schools are eligible for grants of up to $500 to pay for transportation cost for an arts or culture related field trip .The field trip must take place between October 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022.
Applicants must be an accredited Michigan preK-12 educational institution, public or non-public school, private school, home school, school district, intermediate school district/regional educational service agency or an accredited Head Start program.
Questions?
If you have any questions about preparing for the application or in general, do not hesitate to contact us at info@creativewashtenaw.org
See you next Wednesday!
Creative Washtenaw Happy Hour #22 Wednesday, Sept. 29, 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Knight's Steakhouse
2324 Dexter Avenue Ann Arbor, MI 48103
RSVP here so we can save you a seat!
Join us for another in person gathering where we can unwind, laugh and share in collective creativity.
Creative Washtenaw will provide light refreshments and you are on your own to purchase drinks.
CWHH is our monthly meet up with Washtenaw County artists and creative workers – some are regulars and others drop in when they can make it. CWHH is always the last Wednesday of the month (except Aug. and Dec.)
- Michigan Shuttered Venue Operating Grants total $243,729,846
- Washtenaw County: $7,391,483
- Region 9: $11,505,263
- National: $9.7 Billion
- Washtenaw County: 20 grants for $7,391,483.
- Jackson County: 5 grants for $566,915.
- Lenawee County: 5 grants for $568,121.
- Livingston County: 2 grants for $218,212.
- Monroe County: 3 grants for $2,760,531.
Find the full list here. We will continue to monitor as the SBA makes its final disbursement prior to adding supplement grants.
SVOG Supplemental Grants by Invitation Only
The SBA has opened the supplemental SVOGs for qualified awardees for up to 50% of the original award amount, capped at a total of $10 million (initial and supplemental combined). More information on supplemental grants here.
SVOG Appeals
To ensure no eligible venue is left behind, the SBA is currently accepting, by invitation, applications for reconsideration of award amounts and appeals. This rare opportunity gives applicants a chance to prove their eligibility and reverse a prior decision. SBA is committed to delivering relief to entertainment venues through these various options. Should the need arise, the SBA may reopen the portal or make other adjustments to its plan to best meet the needs of small businesses.
Tune-in to creative:impact co-hosted by Deb Polich, president/CEO of Creative Washtenaw and WEMU's David Fair every Tuesday during Morning Edition at 7:49 a.m. and 9:49 a.m. Find archive editions here.
An Encore For Dan Cooney
Sept. 21, 2021 - Straight from Broadway, after roles in "Mamma Mia," "Bonnie and Clyde," "9 to 5," and "Les Misérables," Michigan native Dan Cooney wanted to put on his own show(s). He decided Dexter was the right place and he opened The Encore Theatre. Hear his story when he joins Deb Polich of Creative Washtenaw and WEMU’s David Fair on this edition of "creative:impact." Listen here.
Eric Becher…Take The Field!
Sept. 14, 2021 - Since his student days as member of the Ann Arbor Pioneer High School and at the University of Michigan bands, Dr. Eric Becher has excelled at taking the field, literally and figuratively, whether as the youngest ever director of the U-M Marching Bands or in his second career in fundraising and advancement. He shared his journey with WEMU's David Fair and Deb Polich of Creative Washtenaw on 'creative:impact.' Listen here.
Enjoy programs and presentations from your arts + creative community
Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation Presents 'The Concept of Community'
A Washtenaw County Virtual Conversation on Monday, Sept. 27, from 4-5 p.m. online. Join several community leaders in a discussion about Washtenaw County and how we put core values into action in our community! RSVP here.
Penny Stamps Speaker Series - 2021 Lineup Announced
The Penny Stamps Distinguished Speaker Series brings respected leaders and innovators from a broad spectrum of creative fields direct to your screen of choice with the support of our partners, Detroit Public Television and PBS Books. Click here to download the Fall 2021 Speaker Series printable schedule. Click here to learn more about the series. Runs Thursdays at 8 p.m. online (virtual event).
Stamps Also Presents: DLECTRICITY this weekend
This weekend (Sept. 24 - 27), Stamps Gallery presents Stephanie Dinkins: On Love & Data & Holding Space at DLECTRICITY, Detroit's spectacular outdoor visual light + art celebration. Learn more here.
The Ark Presents: An Evening with May Erlewine & The Motivations | Fall Fundraiser
Sunday, Sept. 26, at 8 p.m. 5 to 6:30 p.m. Dinner at Jolly Pumpkin for Platinum and Gold ticket buyers. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dessert reception at Conor O’Neill’s for Platinum, Gold and Silver ticket buyers. 7:30 p.m. Doors open 8 p.m. Show starts. After Show Begins with a Silent Auction. Learn more.
Ann Arbor Summer Festival Returns with: A Thousand Ways (Part One): A Phone Call
A Thousand Ways is a three-part performance in which you are the actor and you are the audience. Your words, actions, gestures, silence, thoughts and willingness are the tools. You need no training. You are the expert. This presentation follows this past summer’s successful July run. It is a chance at being heard, a brave moment to show up. Runs Nov. 9 - 14. Tickets will be going on sale on Monday, Oct. 4, 2021, for A2SF and UMMA donors and U-M students and on Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2021, for the general public. Learn more here.
The Ark Presents: The Mersey Beatles
The world’s most Authentic and only LIVERPOOL born Beatles Tribute Band was the resident band for over a decade at the world famous Cavern Club, where The Beatles got their start. These childhood friends have played in 20 countries, selling out shows worldwide. Wednesday, Oct. 6. Show starts at 7:30. Get tickets here. *Note: Proof of Vaccination Policy.*
Ann Arbor Storytellers' Guild: StoryFest
Saturday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m. Join the Ann Arbor Storyteller's Guild to celebrate the art of storytelling with StoryFest 2021. Watch on Zoom from the comfort of your own home. Guild members will present an evening of amusing, creative, thoughtful stories in a virtual concert. Free. Donations welcome. Registration required. Register here.
ypsiGLOW 2021 - In Town. At Home. Online
yspiGLOW is a community-built celebration showcasing Ypsilanti's creativity and diversity with light-filled luminary processions, crazy costumes, public art installations, street art performances, music, dancing and oodles of GLOWing fun! Check out the event schedule here. ypsiGLOW runs from Friday, Oct. 1 - Friday, Oct. 29, 2021.
Sphinx Concert and Gala | Sphinx Virtuosi at Carnegie Hall
Friday, Oct. 15, at 7 p.m. at the Stern Auditorium/Perlman Stage. Learn more.
Kerrytown Concert House Presents Edgefest: Celebrating 25 Years at the Edge
Celebrating 25 Years at the Edge (Oct. 28 – Oct. 30, 2021) is the 25th anniversary of the world-renowned avant-garde jazz and creative new music festival hosted by Kerrytown Concert House in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This year’s Edgefest will be a celebration of this unique festival as a defining event in our creative jazz community. Edgefest 2021 will draw upon some of the most noteworthy artists of the festival’s history, while continuing to chart new directions for the festival in the years to come. Learn more about lineup, tickets and more here.
Michigan Theater Presents Elvis Costello & the Imposters
Tuesday, Nov. 2, at 8 p.m. Reserve your tickets today! Click here to learn more about other upcoming live concerts.
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Not a member? Click here for membership information.
Gov. Whitmer Secures Grants to Empower Women through FARE grant
On Sept. 20, it was announced that the U.S. Department of Labor Women’s Bureau awarded the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) $350,000 in
The Michigan Women’s Commission housed within LEO, will administer the grant and work with community-based organizations in southeast Michigan to connect women to eligible benefits under the American Rescue Plan, prioritizing available child care subsidies and eligibility for additional benefits. Read more here.
Gov. Whitmer announces $2 million in export assistance funds availablefor Michigan’s small businesses
According to a press release from Sept. 9, it was announced that Michigan has received the top award in the nation from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) State Trade Expansion Program for the upcoming fiscal year. Michigan received $2 million in federal grant funds – the maximum amount awarded by the SBA and a $650,000 increase from 2021 – to help Michigan s
The Michigan Strategic Fund is providing an additional $667,000 as the state match to support the Michigan STEP grant initiative (MI-STEP), now in its 10th year of supporting financial assistance for exporting activities of eligible Michigan businesses. To date, MEDC’s International Trade program has facilitated more than $4.1 billion in export sales through federal and non-federally funded programs. In fiscal year 2020, export sales generated a total of $592 million for Michigan businesses. Applications are accepted on an on-going basis for MI-STEP grants to small- and medium- sized businesses. For complete details on how companies can apply for assistance, including eligibility requirements and the application process, please visit www.michiganbusiness.
Please continue to visit our 411 Resources Page here to stay in the loop on statewide updates.
Audience Outlook Monitor: The Push for Vaccination Requirements is Mounting
Latest Briefing from Sept. 20 with Steven Hadley
Find Alan Brown's report on the September audience survey results here.
Key Takeaways from Sept. 20 Briefing:
- When will vaccinated folks be ready to go out again? 46% now say they're waiting for conditions to improve.
- 80% - 90% of respondents have "prerequisites" for September between 50% (Milwaukee) and 80% (NYC) won't attend a live event without a proof of vaccination requirement.
- What can an organization or venue have done to make you feel more comfortable at an event? 1. Require a mask. 2. Require proof of vaccination. 3. More/better distancing between seated parties.
Watch the latest Deep Dive: Towards "Normalization" of COVID-19 as an Acceptable Risk.
Find the latest S.E. Michigan August Report here (courtesy of Culture Source.)
"Cellist Yo-Yo-Ma hosting virtual event with U-M on Thursday" - Click on Detroit
"Vaccine Mandates are Legal and Effective. It's Time for Nonprofits and Foundations to Implement Them." - Nonprofit AF
"Vaccination and Compassion Go Hand-in-Hand" - The Foraker Group
"New Beginnings" at WSG Gallery Takes Place September 15, Highlighting The Gallery's Grand Opening" - Current Magazine
"$2 million in export assistance funds available for Michigan's small businesses" - WILX 10
"Blackburn, Hagerty want to expand 'Save our Stages Act' to help 'blue collar' industry workers" - Nashville News Channel 5
"How did they do it? University of Michigan marching band explains 9/11 lightship extravaganza" - MLive
"NEA National Heritage Tribute Video: Anna Brown Ehlers" - YouTube
"University of Michigan Museum of Natural History welcomes new planetarium manager" - All About Ann Arbor
"The Concert Business Was Expecting a 'Hot Vax' Summer, But It's a Hot Mess Instead" - Billboard
"Every 2021 Concert & Festival Canceled Due to COVID-19" - Billboard
"COVID Cases Go Up and Booster Shots Becoming Available in Washtenaw County" - WEMU
"Whitmer outlines proposals to boost small businesses, Michigan economic recovery" - MLive
"Your Concise New York Art Guide for September 2021" - Hyperallergic
"New York Arts Scene Evolves in Response to Delta Variant" - Artforum
"Support Black Owned Businesses" - Michigan Women Forward
National
Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants - New York Foundation for the Arts
This program provides one-time grants of up to $5,000 for recent unexpected medical, dental, and mental health emergencies to artists in financial need who are practicing in the visual arts, film/video/electronic/digital arts and choreography. Cycle 9 is now open, with a deadline of Oct. 4, for emergencies occurring Jan. 1, 2021, and later. Learn more and apply here.
Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation (MAAF) - Grants for Artists
Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation’s grant programs for artists allow artists to explore and create, provide touring engagements regionally and internationally, help to build audiences and provide support and services to assist in career development. Learn more and apply here. New Grant! USArtists International's - learn more here!
Arts Administrators of Color Emergency Fund
Arts Administrators of Color has created the Arts Leaders of Color Emergency Fund, which supports BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) artists and arts administrators impacted by COVID-19 through $200 microgrants. Learn more.
Behind the Scenes Grant
Behind the Scenes Grants are available to anyone working in the entertainment technology industry who has been hospitalized with COVID-19 and is in financial need. Applicants should be directly involved with production behind the scenes in any type of performance venue, behind the camera or on the road. Learn more and apply.
There are several more grants available!
Please visit our website here for more listings.
Additional Grant Resources:
A Complete Guide to 2021 Artist Grants & Opportunities | Artwork Archive
Tapping American Rescue Fund (ARF) State and Local Block Grants for the Arts
Local, Regional & State
Sphinx Venture Fund and Sphinx Lead Applications - Sept. 30 Deadline
Through competitive grants, Sphinx Venture Fund catalyzes initiatives designed to solve a challenge or an issue related to DE&I in the performing arts sphere, with an emphasis on classical music. Learn more and apply here. Apply by Sept. 30, 2021. The application is also now open for Sphinx LEAD, a two-year professional empowerment program designed to evolve the landscape of arts leadership. Learn more here.
Arts Midwest GIG Fund Grant - Oct. 5 Deadline
The GIG Fund aims to support the arts throughout the Midwest by funding a variety of diverse performances across the region. Organizations must present performing or visual artists via at least two public events, which can be in person or virtual. The GIG Fund is a flexible grant of $2,500 that helps organizations bring touring artists into their community. Deadline to apply is Oct. 5. Learn more about timeline and application here.
Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation Grantmaking Program - Open!
The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation recognizes the inequitable hardships that exist in Washtenaw County and that were made more apparent due to the pandemic. The inequities in our communities related to education, criminal justice, housing and health are only some examples of areas that require institutional and systemic change. AAACF’s COVID Relief and Recovery funding will prioritize efforts that advance social justice in our communities. Click here for an overview of available grants. Note! AAACF’s Community Investment Committee is seeking opportunities to invest funds in community-based projects that specifically support COVID-19 relief and recovery. Please register for the NonProfit Portal to receive access to the grant application. All organizations must submit a request for credentials by Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021. Applicants must attend one of three required Information Sessions. Detailed information about the Information Sessions and a link to RSVP can be found here. Be sure to submit all required narrative sections through the NonProfit Portal by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021.
Only a few days left to apply! Ann Arbor Film Festival - Call for Entries
Founded in 1963, The Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival in North America. The AAFF offers approximately $22,500 in both cash and in-kind awards each year. An AAFF award can also qualify filmmakers for an Oscar® Nomination by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in the short film category. We are now accepting films for the 60th Film Festival March 22-27, 2022. The regular deadline has passed, the late deadline is Sept. 30. Apply and learn more here.
Adrian Center for the Arts - Watercolor Exhibitions & Workshops
Adrian Center for the Arts is hosting the Michigan watercolor society tour and have two workshops this fall. Upcoming workshop dates are Oct. 2 -3. Click here to register for the workshops. To view the watercolor gallery and learn more about the exhibits, click here.
YoungArts - National Arts Competition - 2022 Application Cycle Now Open
Artists ages 15–18, or grades 10–12, in the U.S. are encouraged to apply in the discipline of their choice. All applications are judged by esteemed discipline-specific panels of artists through a rigorous blind adjudication process and award winners are offered a lifetime of artistic support and ongoing connection with an extraordinarily robust network of peers and mentors.The deadline to fully complete and submit an application is Friday, Oct. 15, 2021, by 11:59 p.m. ET. Learn more and apply here!
Cause and Effect Gallery: Art with a Purpose: See It, Hear It, Speak Out! Call for Submissions
See it, Hear it, Speak out is about the elimination of violence against women. Throughout history, women around the world continue to be impacted by violence in many forms. This violence may be in the form of domestic violence, rape, child marriage, female genital mutilation, human trafficking, acid burning, etc. This exhibition will feature art by female artists about this subject matter. Who better to speak of these atrocities than women. Individuals will be notified by Oct. 9, 2021, of their acceptance into the show. Fill out the submission form here. Contact Annie Anglim at the gallery for more information: 810-820-0993.
Local Call for Art - Ann Arbor Seeks Artists for Water Treatment Plant Mural Project
Are you an artist looking for your next project? The City of Ann Arbor is seeking an artist to create a painted mural that will be featured in the stairwell of the Ann Arbor Water Treatment Plant Administration Building, which is a highly trafficked location and will serve as a dramatic space. Additionally, the mural shall become part of the city's public art program through the Ann Arbor Public Art Commission, giving it wider visibility. The stairwell is approximately 8 feet wide by 18 feet long and 21 feet high. The contract award to complete the mural is $17,000. The application deadline is Oct. 31, 2021, and work must be completed by November 2022 or before. Learn more about this opportunity here. All About Ann Arbor also covered the call here.
Good Hart Artist in Residency Opportunities
The Good Hart Artist Residency located in Good Hart, Michigan offers 2-3 week residencies to dedicated visual artists, writers and composers. The residency provides a 1,150 sqft residency and a 24×14 detached studio, food, a $500.00 stipend and a quiet setting to concentrate on creative work. The resident artist is housed in a rural area within walking distance of Lake Michigan and the village of Good Hart, along the “Tunnel of Trees,” a Scenic Heritage Route. Read more about residency opportunities here.
Call for Vendors - Indie Art & Craft Fair Tiny Expo
The next Tiny Expo is Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at Ann Arbor District Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. Tiny Expo features 45 artists and crafters selling handmade wares in a festive library space in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. Our little annual holiday show is a great way to support your community and find unique gifts. Vendor applications are now open. We're looking for top notch artists, makers and crafters to join us! Applications will be accepted through midnight on Sunday, Oct. 3. No late apps will be accepted, no exceptions. Apply here.
Submit calls, auditions and more here.
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) has many job openings. Visit them all here.
Americans for the Arts - Job Bank - New Listings.
Allied Media Projects - Sponsorship Coordinator
Avalon Housing - Fundraising Manager
Michigan Science Center - Chief Business Officer
Glen Arbor Arts Center - Administrative Assistant/Front Desk
The Michigan Theater - FOH Team Member
The Michigan Theater - Box office assistant
Michigan Science Center - Chief Development Officer
The Ark - Night Manager (Part time) and Technical Manager (Part time)
Washtenaw Community College Free Coaching for Business Owners!
The WCC Entrepreneurs-in-Residence Program (EIR) started in 2019 and is made possible through private grants. Nine local entrepreneurs are available as business consultants in their area of expertise. One-on-one individual 40-minute appointments can be made after an initial intake with the EC, please fill out our Business Assistance Request form to begin the process. Here is a direct link to Calendly to schedule an appointment with entrepreneur-in-residence, Sandra Xenakis.
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) has many job openings. Visit them all here.
Americans for the Arts - Job Bank - New Listings.
Allied Media Projects - Sponsorship Coordinator
Avalon Housing - Fundraising Manager
Michigan Science Center - Chief Business Officer
Glen Arbor Arts Center - Administrative Assistant/Front Desk
The Michigan Theater - FOH Team Member
The Michigan Theater - Box office assistant
Michigan Science Center - Chief Development Officer
The Ark - Night Manager (Part time) and Technical Manager (Part time)
Washtenaw Community College Free Coaching for Business Owners!
The WCC Entrepreneurs-in-Residence Program (EIR) started in 2019 and is made possible through private grants. Nine local entrepreneurs are available as business consultants in their area of expertise. One-on-one individual 40-minute appointments can be made after an initial intake with the EC, please fill out our Business Assistance Request form to begin the process. Here is a direct link to Calendly to schedule an appointment with entrepreneur-in-residence, Sandra Xenakis.
If you would like to submit a job posting, please fill out our submission form here.
For more listings, please visit our jobs page here.
Michigan Nonprofit Association COVID-19 Check-In
Earlier this year, MNA did a check-in survey, and learned that 25% of respondents envisioned a full return to the office. Does that still resonate? MNA has created a one-minute survey (just 6 questions!) to see how you are continuing to deal with the ongoing challenges of the pandemic. Access the survey here.
National Coalition for Arts' Preparedness & Emergency Response Field Guide
The Field Guide gives a snapshot of federal disaster assistance programs that can go into effect after a presidentially declared disaster and focuses on longstanding programs that are likely to continue. It includes in-depth information about financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) along with introductory information about other federal resources that provide a mixture of financial and other assistance. Read here.
New Report Makes the Case for Arts Education: Recommends Access for All
Read the report.
Webinar: Safety and Security for the Performing Arts - Oct. 14 at 2 p.m. EST
This class will help event organizers and venues establish the key elements for prevention and responding to incidents of any shape or size. This class will provide a background of what happens when things don’t go as planned, and show that it doesn’t matter what size or type of event you have, the basic principles are the same. We will look at what you would do in certain scenarios, and how even small adjustments to your venue can keep your event safer. Register here.
National Protecting Your Assets Toolkit
This Protecting Your Assets Toolkit offers guidance on making critical decisions about your arts or cultural organization’s structure and resilience, and how to preserve your assets whether you are growing, stable, contracting or suspending operations. Many resources have emerged recently to explore different aspects of arts and cultural organizations. This Toolkit focuses specifically on the organization’s overall structure and assets, rather than programming, to help you control your own destiny. Access the toolkit here.
Black Women in the Nonprofit Sector: New Findings from the 2019 Race to Lead Survey
The Building Movement Project’s Race to Lead series investigates why there are so few leaders of color in the nonprofit sector and documents the challenges people of color face as they reach for and attain senior leadership roles in nonprofit organizations. The Race to Lead: Women of Color in the Nonprofit Sector report explored the experiences of women of color who took the first 2016 Race to Lead survey. In 2019, the Building Movement Project conducted an updated national survey with new questions about the sector, including experiences with discrimination; workplace dynamics and compensation.
2021 Ann Arbor Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Report
The 2021 Ann Arbor Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Report is a comprehensive analysis of the startup community in Washtenaw County. Read and download the report here.
Local Advocacy & Action
An Intro to Michigan Redistricting: Explore the Public Comment Portal
Washtenaw County Apportionment Commission Public Hearing
Attend the meeting here on Sept. 27 at 6:30 p.m. EST.
The Washtenaw County Apportionment Commission is currently seeking input regarding the number of County Commissioner districts and location of district boundaries to be incorporated into the 2022 Apportionment Plan. This plan will become effective for 10 years beginning in 2022. There are several ways to provide input:
- Attend an upcoming virtual Public Hearing.
- Submit written comments & attachments using the Commission's online Public Input form.
- Submit written comments & attachments by mail or in person to: Washtenaw County Apportionment Commission, c/o Washtenaw County Clerk - Elections Division, 200 N. Main Street, Suite 120, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
- Submit written comments by fax to (734) 222-6528
Creative Washtenaw's Advocacy Education Resources
Visit our website page here for Advocacy & Action facts, figures and recommended reading.
State/Regional Advocacy & Action
Encourage state elected officials to review and pay heed to the latest call for federal policy changes for nonprofits. Of note, please encourage state representatives to endorse the CERA bill here.
Michigan Legislature Senate Bill Search - Michigan Compiled Laws Complete Through PA 83 of 2021
Federal Advocacy & Action
The fall legislative season is upon us. The U.S. Senate returned from August recess this week and the House of Representatives will return next week. Among a full plate of major issues this fall, Congress is focused on passing both a reconciliation package and bipartisan infrastructure bill, funding the government into the new fiscal year beginning Oct. 1 and raising or suspending the debt ceiling. Be sure you are registered to vote! Here are some resources below:
https://nationalvoterregistrationday.org
https://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/toolkit-for-organizations/
Federal Advocacy resources from Arts Ready:
- An Arts Field Guide to Federal Disaster Relief, for Arts Organizations and Businesses, Artists and Cultural Workers
- The Arts Organizations at a Crossroads Toolkit: Managing Transitions and Preserving Assets
- Readiness Professional Development
- How To Decide What to Grab In an Emergency
Your National Advocacy Checklist for the End of Sept!
Click here.
Learn about Redistricting at a National Level.
Read here.
Sign the Pledge!
Urge Dr. Miguel A. Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education, urging him to take specific steps at the Department of Education to help rectify these inequities through better data and assessments, clearer communication with state and local officials, and engagement of senior staff. Add your name here.
Arts Letter to Secretary Cardona to Ask for Data Collection Re: Access to Arts Education
Please join us in signing this letter to Dr. Miguel A. Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education, urging him to take specific steps at the department of education to help rectify inequities in arts equity through better data and assessments, clearer communication with state and local officials and engagement of senior staff. Take the pledge!
Urge Congress to Approve Budget Resolution for FY22 to Support Live Business Events & Small Businesses
Read the letter here and share.
Urge Congress to Enact Nonprofit Policy Priorities
Read the letter here and share.
Sign the Nonprofit Coalition Letter to the president and Congressional Leaders
What to Tell Congress! Top of Mind for Federal Advocacy!
Overview:
The House is expected to take up by Sept. 27 the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, H.R. 3684, that passed the Senate in August. Although the substance of the bill has solid support, Speaker Pelosi has been reluctant to enact the $1.2 trillion bill out of concern that it would remove pressure to pass the $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation bill currently being negotiated.
Tell Congress: Support Funding for the IMLS Office of Museum Services
Tell Congress: Include Museums in Infrastructure Legislation
Arts Action Campaigns | Americans for the Arts - the latest campaigns and petitions to sign and take part in.
Stand for the Arts Action Center - Visit their main site here to get involved and follow their robust advocacy, press and outreach initiatives.
Other Resources:
- Americans for the Arts Cultural Equity Resource Center
- Arts Action Fund's COVID-19 Arts Resources Page *updated*
- COVID-19 Pandemic's Impact on The Arts
- Organizations and Creative Businesses. Americans for the Arts
- CARES Act Table of Funding Opportunities for the Arts and Artists
Next month is National Arts & Humanities Month ~ stay tuned for updates as we approach October!
Visit Americans for the Arts special event page here to learn more and get involved!
Stay Alert with the Michigan Vaccine Tracker
We've been monitoring a most helpful and interactive COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard that you can monitor for real-time updates. This Tracker includes vaccinations of Michiganders received both in-state and out-of-state, allowing the state to provide more comprehensive data on vaccination milestones as they are reached. Bridge Michigan also has an updated COVID-19 case tracker available.
Washtenaw County - Emergency Mask Order for Schools, Encouraged in Public Spaces
As of Sept. 2, Washtenaw County health officials have issued an emergency order that requires face masks to be worn at all K-12 schools this fall. Students and staff at all K-12 public, private, vocational and charter schools within the county are required to wear a face mask while indoors. The order is to remain active until county transmission decreases to a moderate level or lower.
Washtenaw County Health Department strongly recommends masking for everyone in indoor, public spaces. Anyone eligible but not yet vaccinated against COVID should do so as soon as possible.
On Booster Shots: Washtenaw County advises the following: People who are not immunocompromised do not need an additional vaccine dose right now. No other "booster" doses are authorized or recommended at this time.
Listen to this conversation with WEMU's David Fair in conversation with Washtenaw County Health Department spokesperson Susan Ringler-Cerniglia.
Washtenaw County COVID-19 Resources
Visit Washtenaw County's central COVID-19 page with resources about vaccines, alerts, travel restrictions, case updates and more. Click here for a more detailed breakdown of cases and demographics. Not in Washtenaw County? Find your county vaccine registration information here.
Learn here about the free or low-cost rides in Washtenaw county.
Washtenaw County Issues Public Health Emergency Orders for Schools as of Sept. 2
Where to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine | Washtenaw County |
State/Regional
Federal
CDC Vaccine Booster Shot Information
CDC Guidelines for Those Fully Vaccinated - How to Protect Yourself and Others
For a more comprehensive list, please visit our website here.
Visit our updated 411 page for Workers + Businesses Federal, State & Local!
Visit here. This page is filled with helpful resources for all things IRS, SBA, official orders and more. A sampling below:
Washtenaw and local
Washtenaw United Way - Food and Essential Services
Michigan Works! Southeast provides a plethora of support, training and services for job seekers.
Michigan
Michigan LEO Support for Small Business
Michigan LEO Back to Work Employer Resources
Federal
New! SBA COVID-19 EIDL Program
SBA PPP Direct Forgiveness Portal
Living Wage Calculator - estimates the cost of living in your community or region based on typical expenses.
Join the Arts Action Fund to advance the arts and arts education in your community and across the country.
It's FREE and takes just a minute. Add your name and be counted so Congress know there are millions of arts and creative workers, businesses and citizens who insist that arts and creativity are critical to our country. Join here for updates and calls to action.
Annual Arts Action Fund membership is free and your online benefits include:
- Membership to vote on the legislative policy platforms
- Breaking news and legislative alerts from the E-Advocacy center
- Quarterly updates through Arts Action eNews
- Exclusive access to the member's only Arts Action Fund PAC
WEMU 89.1 FM - Local news coverage plus local arts + creative coverage including Art & Soul with Lisa Barry, Cinema Chat with the Michigan Theater's Russ Collins and creative:impact with Creative Washtenaw's own Deb Polich.
Bridge Magazine - Michigan's nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that provides passionate and rooted Michigan readers with honest, fact-driven journalism on the state’s diverse people, politics and economy.
All About Ann Arbor - offers local news, feature stories, restaurant news, sports news, latest events in town and more for Ann Arbor residents.
Concentrate Magazine - tells the narrative of Washtenaw County’s narrative people and businesses, new development, cool places to live, and the best places to work and play. The weekly online magazine is published Wednesdays.
For the fastest updates and breaking news!
- Follow Creative Washtenaw on Facebook
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Creative Washtenaw's COVID-19 Support Page
- Resources - including advocacy, support and affiliation agencies
- Aid, assistance and grants for artists, creatives and organizations - COVID-19
The Arts + Creative Industries Guide
With links to creative members and businesses.
Featuring hundreds of artists, creative workers, businesses and ally members, this is your guide to what makes Creative Washtenaw, and the greater Ann Arbor area one of Michigan’s strongest and most vibrant arts + creative industry hubs.
Creative Washtenaw is the arts + creative industry authority in Washtenaw County. A regional agency, its mission is to support, assist, aid and act in the interest of artists, creative workers, organizations, businesses, educational and government entities to ensure that the greater Ann Arbor, Michigan, region remains a great place to create, live, work, learn, play and visit.
The intrinsic and aesthetic values of the arts and creativity are determining factors of success for Creative Washtenaw members. They include local artists and creative people – professionals, amateurs, students and industry experts leading the sector locally, nationally and internationally – those with creative practices, businesses and holding creative jobs in profit, nonprofit, educational and government entities. With deep connections to Washtenaw County, they make the greater Ann Arbor area one of Michigan's strongest and most vibrant arts + creative industry hubs.
Creative Washtenaw serves Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Dexter, Manchester, Milan, Saline, Whitmore Lake and Ypsilanti plus the 21 townships in the county. It is committed to, forever evolving and learning about diversity, equity and inclusion. This includes learning how its community defines the intrinsic and aesthetic qualities of art and creativity by the cultural expert, the credentialed scholar, the journeyed or self-taught master and/or the astute consumer of the form.
Creative Washtenaw is supported by its members, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.
For more information, please go to Creative Washtenaw or contact info@creativewashtenaw.org or call or 734-213-2733.
