We invest in sector capacity, creative learning and arts
instruction to allow Chicagoans to gain access to and develop an appreciation for the arts
We believe the best arts education programs exhibit artistic excellence and offer long-term programming with multiple exposure and high engagement. The importance of arts education is clearly documented. For underserved families, schools may serve as the sole provider of the arts for children.
Yet Chicago Public School students have minimal arts experiences. Budget cuts and an emphasis on standardized tests have cut back or eliminated much art programming in the public schools. To address this deficiency, our portfolio supports arts exposure and arts learning programs. We invest in organizations that effectively deliver meaningful arts programming to students and increase teachers’ ability to utilize the arts throughout the Chicago Public system.
Arts & Culture portfolios include: