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BROWARD COUNTY
With a population of 1.7 million people, Broward County is larger than 13 states. Our rich diversity of residents from different countries, different states, and different cultures contribute to fragmentation of our population and isolation of different groups within Broward’s 1,200 square miles. Furthermore, with current trends of migration, sprawl, and increased mobility, many residents do not feel strongly connected to, or identify with, their communities. It is vital for the future of Broward to implement strategies to solidify individuals’ connections to our county and to each other.
The Community Foundation of Broward seeks to nurture civic-engagement by bringing diverse residents, sectors and organizations together using the arts to address community problems..
WHY IT CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
RCivic engagement projects provide a powerful community motive to bring people together. It can be defined as actions that identify and address public issues. Through civic engagement, Broward residents are empowered to be instruments of positive social change and develop stronger societal bonds as they work to make a difference in the civic life of our communities.
WHY ART?
TThe Arts are a nonthreatening, interactive means to involve people in creating solutions to important issues. We believe:
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Art is a tool to stimulate critical thinking, communication, and creative problem solving.
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Art has the power to bond people to each other and their community.
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Art has the power to be utilized more to address significant community problems.
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Art is a universal language that connects individuals regardless of ethnicity, gender, orientation or age.
WHY CONNECT RESIDENTS?
A report by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation in partnership with Gallup showed “a significant connection exists between residents’ levels of emotional attachment to their community and its economic growth.”
Shared meaningful experiences are an effective tool to connect people and create a sense of pride for, and attachment to, their community. Do you have an idea for the next Art of Community project? Visit our Grants page to view the application.
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