Invest in the Arts. Invest in the Future.
Strengthening Roanoke’s future through a legacy of meaningful support of community arts and culture.
In the Community
The Arts Mean Business for the City of Roanoke
The arts make a difference in our region that takes form in two outcomes: they connect every one of us as human beings, and together, the arts propel our economy. This study sends a clear and welcome message: the arts are an investment that delivers both community well being and economic vitality.
Ukuthula (Live)
The Arts are the spirit of our community. Visual beauty and interest, musical opportunities, and life performances educate and enrich our society. Arts are an essential part of the education of our children.
Behind the Scenes of “Children of Eden” with the Mill Mountain Theatre
Sights of Roanoke Arts & Culture
Impact & news
Local Nonprofits Pivot to Meet Families’ Needs During COVID-19; Innovative Ideas Outlast Pandemic
Summertime and The Living’s Easy Unless you’re a parent. After end-of-year testing and...
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Q&A: RCE Board Member Nancy Gray on The Importance of Arts Education in Our Community
Roanoke Cultural Endowment Board Member Nancy Gray has more than 40 years of experience in higher...
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RCE Board Member, Cheryl Mosley, Reflects On How Arts & Culture Can Be Centered Around Community-Building
Cheryl Mosley, Director of Feeding America Southwest Virginia Community Solutions Center has...
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Why Arts & Culture?
Roanoke’s arts and culture community is at a crossroads, facing many challenges including:
- $2.7 million funding gap in operating funds.
- $20 million in unmet capital needs.
- 43% deficit in organizational development funding.
- Less than $225,000 received from the state.
- Zero federal funding available.
%
of American adults agree that the arts are a part of a well-rounded education.
%
believe students should receive an education in the arts in elementary, middle, and high school.
%
say the arts should also be taught outside of the classroom in the community.
How we can help?
Operational grants will be granted in 3-year cycles to allow for predictability, stability, and accountability; our ultimate goal is to supplement 25% of operating funds for grantees. Organizations must meet minimum eligibility requirements for funding consideration including the following:
- Must be a registered 501(c)(3) organization.
- Must be an arts and/or cultural organization.
- Must be located in Roanoke City.
- Must have a minimum 3-year record of continuous operation in the City of Roanoke