Fostering Creativity Through the Arts
"Imagination is the source of every form of human achievement. And it's the one thing that I believe we are systematically jeopardizing in the way we educate our children and ourselves."
- Ken Robinson
Youth arts programs ignite creativity and imagination, foster independent thinking, and strengthen problem-solving skills. Through artistic experiences, children gain essential tools that help them grow into engaged, innovative thinkers. Arts education is more than a creative outlet—it connects students to the broader world and enhances community cohesion.
Unfortunately, arts programs in schools have been significantly reduced nationwide, with the greatest impact felt in low-income communities. Research shows that students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds who have access to rich arts experiences are far more likely to achieve positive academic, social, and civic outcomes compared to peers without such opportunities.
The Joseph & Vera Long Foundation seeks to support school programs and organizations that deliver equitable access to arts education. This includes providing tools, materials, classes, instruction, and mentorship for creative expression. By expanding opportunities for youth to engage in visual, literary, and performing arts, we aim to give them a creative edge, encourage exploration and self-expression, and help shape caring, educated, and innovative adults.
Grant Guidelines
Grants will be made for:
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Program Costs (including materials & supplies)
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Capital Improvements
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Capacity Building
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Subsidized Tuition
Grants will not be made for:
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Individual shows or performances
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Career development programs
Populations targeted:
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Children (6-18 yrs.) attending under-resourced schools
Preference will be given to:
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Innovative organizations with high outreach to families in low-income communities
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Programs reaching and benefitting a wide range of participants rather than serving only a limited group
Examples of the types of programs that we are looking to support include:
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Extracurricular Arts Programs on Campus
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After-school Arts Programs
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Community Arts Programs
For more concrete examples, please refer to our list of recent grants.
When applying for the Fostering Creativity Through the Arts grant program:
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Apply only once per calendar year, either in the Spring or Fall grant cycle.
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Apply for a one-year grant from $10K to $30K (Spring or Fall).
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Go to the Apply page for key dates and process instructions.