Author: Russell, Carol

Publication Year: 1982

Media Type: Report

Summary:

Abstract:

Helping people help themselves....the words create an image of a Peace Corp volunteer struggling in some underdeveloped, distant country. Now, in rural northern Minnesota, this human service theory has successfully taken on new meaning. The Community Arts Development Project, a two-year $100,000 pilot program funded by the C.K. Blandin Foundation, has pioneered a concept with exciting, promising results.

Arts organizations in the rural Midwest traditionally face slim odds for survival - let alone growth. Communities, especially in northern Minnesota, are small and are separated by long distances made longer with winter weather. Volunteer resources are stretched thin. The economy is always a concern and, with the dominant timber and mining industries directly responding to national slowdowns, the proverbial belt-tightening continues.

Future public and private financing is uncertain, but the labor intensive nature of the arts make them increasingly more expensive. In essence, the resources available to rural arts organizations are few. But, despite their problems, evaluators say these groups have great potential. If they can become strong, well managed entities, they may be able to do more with less to accept the challenges ahead and perhaps even prosper within limited means.

Recognizing this, the Blandin Foundation initiated an innovative program in May of 1981. Rather than underwrite an event or activity, the Foundation hired full-time consultant Curt Lambrecht to provide professional management assistance to community arts organizations in the form of fundraising, volunteerism, budget management, marketing and long-range planning. Calling him their first walking grant. Blandin invited area groups to submit written application for Lambrecht's services.

CONTENTS
Introduction.
The consultant.
Indepth management assistance: the case studies:
     Bemidji, Minnesota.
     Grand Rapids, Minnesota.
     Hibbing, Minnesota.
Information and referral.
Conferences and workshops.
Evaluation.

Arts & Intersections:

Categories: Community Development