GFWC Arts in the Community Program Bulletin

 

Students who receive arts education perform better academically, among other benefits.

Learn more »

National Arts & Humanities Month has become the largest annual celebration across the nation to recognize culture in America. The impact that arts and culture have on citizens’ daily lives is the focus of numerous events in communities across the United States.

Suggested club involvement:

• Listen or download ArtCast3 on ARTSblog. This site offers a variety of programs and events that will be held during October in celebration of National Arts & Humanities Month.
• Advocate for the Arts during this month: join with teachers, parents, children, artists, and art organizations to defend, support, and promote your cause in local newspapers and media outlets. The Arts Action Center is a resource center for action on arts and a public awareness campaign. 
• Contact local, state, and federal elected representatives to make your voices heard about the importance of arts in your communities.  Information can be found at Americans for the Arts.
• Learn more about the National PTA and Start the Art Week. The National Parent Teacher Association believes that all school children deserve to be given the opportunity to develop arts education skills in school. The PTA’s Start the Art Week, October 8-12 is a national incentive for students, families, and teachers to celebrate a week of arts involvement with special programs and events. 
• Recognize and honor local teachers that have made an impact on Arts programs in your public school system.
• Learn what necessary tools your club needs to help support the decision-makers of arts education in your public schools.  Visit the Online Resource Center: Arts Education in Public Schools and learn about the National School Boards Association’s partnership with Americans for the Arts.

Your club’s involvement can make an important impact on Arts in the Community by sponsoring local artists in residence programs, and local theater events and concerts, organizing art exhibits, and promoting arts education funding for schools. 

LEARN MORE
» When public and private sector leaders fund the arts, they not only enhance our quality of life, but they also invest in our economic well-being. 
»Students with four years of high school art classes have higher SAT scores than students with one-half year or less. 
»Students who participate in the arts, both in school and after school, demonstrate improved academic performance and lower dropout rates. 
»Studies by the U.S. Department of Justice researchers demonstrate increased pro-social behavior among youths involved with the arts programs. 
» Find out more by visiting www.AmericansForTheArts.org

Celebrate National Arts and Humanities Month and remember to report all of your Arts in the Community achievements, programs, and events. 

—Rosalie A. Dialessi (Mass.), GFWC Arts in the Community Chairman