Arts Advocacy
Strengthening Roanoke’s Future through a legacy of meaningful support of community arts and culture.
Arts and Economic Prosperity Report
How Much Are the Arts Really Worth to a Community?
The Roanoke Cultural Endowment is determined to find out. Which is why we commissioned a study by Americans for the Arts to examine the economic impact that arts and culture can have on the Roanoke Valley.
Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 provides evidence that the nonprofit arts and culture sector generates $64.2 million in total economic activity, supports 1,774 full-time equivalent jobs, generates $41 million in household income to local residents, and delivers $6.5 million in local and state government revenue. This economic impact study sends a strong signal that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, but we also invest in the City of Roanoke’s economic well-being.
Advocate for the Arts
It might sound intimidating; however, anyone can be an arts advocate. In fact, you’re probably advocating for the arts already without realizing it. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Share your support of the arts with friends and family
- Send copies of articles about the arts and education to legislative/policy members
- Respond to action alerts from an advocacy network like the Virginians for the Arts
- Meet with legislators, school board members and other policy makers:
- Write letters and articles for the local newspaper about the arts and arts education
- Recruit others to advocate for the arts
- Attend Arts Advocacy Day in Richmond, VA
Other Ways You Can Help
Attend an Arts or Cultural Event
Sounds easy, right? It is! Roanoke offers some of the best arts and cultural events in the region, and they are right here in our backyard. Attend a performance, visit a museum, or purchase art from a local artist. The hardest part is deciding which incredible event to attend! Check out the Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge event calendar for a list of current arts and cultural events.