In an exciting twist to the Community Foundation of Broward’s “Food for Thought” online gatherings, participants recently got to decide which new Art of Community project would receive a $10,000 bonus grant.
Inspired by the “Shark Tank” TV show, where entrepreneurs pitch business ideas to celebrity investors, the Community Foundation “Arts Tank” featured presentations from five new Art of Community grantees who shared details about their exciting projects to use the arts to champion social justice in Broward.
Attendees at the February Food for Thought saw presentations about a new wave of documentaries, theatrical performances, workshops, podcasts, exhibitions and more made possible by $350,000 in Community Foundation grants. Food for Thought participants then voted for the project they thought would best raise awareness and create community engagement, using significant artistic creativity. The $10,000 bonus grant went to the Inside Out Theatre Company, which plans a series of community storytelling events that lead to creating an original theatre production about the prejudice people face.
All of five projects featured in the Arts Tank will have an amazing impact on our community, thanks to support from Fundholders at the Community Foundation, said President/CEO Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, Ph.D.
“It’s really the arts that unify us. They heal us. They inspire us,” Jennifer said. “They provide a pathway forward.”
Our Food for Thought get-togethers – held online during the pandemic – enable our Fundholders, Legacy Society members and professional advisors to learn more about big issues and see the bold impact of local philanthropy. The February Food for Thought featured Art of Community – philanthropy that ignites creativity, invokes community pride and unites local residents through the arts.
In addition to learning more about the five new Art of Community grantees, the February Food for Thought featured Chris Wilson’s inspiring story about going from prisoner to accomplished artist, author and business owner. Chris shared how his connection to the arts has helped him overcome a troubled childhood, chart a brighter future for himself and give back to his struggling community.
Artists can use their talents to tell powerful stories and give voice to important issues, Chris said.
“We have a role to play that’s very important for society,” Chris said. “Keep paying it forward and helping people.”
Click here to watch a recording of February’s Food for Thought.
To talk about creating a charitable Fund at the Community Foundation can help you support the arts and other issues that matter, contact Vice President of Philanthropic Services Nancy Thies at nthies@cfbroward.org or 954-761-9503.
