ArtsWestchester Opens Grant Opportunity for Nonprofit Arts Organizations

ArtsWestchester recently announced a competitive funding opportunity for nonprofit arts and cultural organizations and historic sites in Westchester County. The grant program, called Arts Access, supports organizations that offer public programs, seasons of performances, exhibitions or arts education. 

ArtsWestchester is the leading funder and advocate for the arts in Westchester and Rockland Counties with a goal of creating access to the arts for all. CEO Kathleen Reckling explains: “The ArtsWestchester Arts Access grant ensures that arts and culture remain within reach for communities across Westchester by providing essential programmatic funding to local organizations.”

Reckling also notes that the Arts Access program is made possible with support from Westchester County and the County Board of Legislators. Westchester County Executive (CE) Ken Jenkins underscores the importance of the program by acknowledging the impact of the arts: “When you think about what makes a community feel connected, the arts are a big part of that. They give people a place to gather, to learn and to experience something new. This funding helps local organizations keep that going. It gives them the flexibility to grow their programs and reach more people across Westchester.”

Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi adds: “The arts bring joy, spark conversations, and bridge communities. Every Westchester resident deserves to be part of that experience. Arts Access grants give arts organizations the support they need to make that happen for residents of all ages, neighborhoods and backgrounds. We are proud to stand behind a program that keeps culture alive and available to everyone across our county.”

The grant’s guidelines are currently live and the application deadline is May 6. Information sessions will take place on April 16 in person at Ossining Public Library and on Zoom on April 22.

Says CE Jenkins: “At the end of the day, it’s about making sure the arts are not out of reach, but something people can actually be part of.”