In recent weeks in news articles and an editorial (Herald, Mar. 3), the movement to establish a Colorado Certified Creative District has been explained and recommended. In its early stages this would allow a renewed focus on the positive economic contributions of a vibrant arts community.
For the past 26 years a group of dedicated volunteers, members of Durango Friends of the Arts (DFA), has been raising money to distribute financial assistance through grants to nonprofit organizations, individuals, schools, etc. with art programs, regardless of medium.
Funds are raised through collaborations with local businesses, large public events like the annual luncheon and silent auction, the Father’s Day pie sale at the farmers’ market and small events at members’ homes, to name a few.
Grants allocations follow a finely tuned process and are voted on by the membership in January with funds distributed throughout the year as requested by the recipients.
In 2017, 19 grants were approved for a total of $23,000. This year, among the nineteen diverse recipients are Stillwater Music, Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering, Durango Celtic Society, and the Dumpster Beautification Project.
Through the years DFA grants have assisted large and small organizations, enabling them to provide arts experiences to thousands of residents, especially children.
DFA membership is open to all and guests are welcome at all membership meetings and fundraising events. Learn more about this unique organization dedicated to supporting the arts in the Durango area by visiting the website, durangofriends.org.
Myriam Palmer
Durango
