Media Releases 2005

ARTS ORGANIZATIONS AROUND THE PROVINCE GET FINANCIAL BOOST TO GEAR UP FOR 2010 AND BEYOND

Vancouver, B.C. (April 6, 2005): Arts organizations and communities around the province will benefit from an investment of over $770,000 from ArtsNow, a 2010 LegaciesNow program designed to create new opportunities for B.C. to showcase cultural activities leading up to 2010 and beyond.

"As British Columbia’s athletes compete with the best in 2010, our creative community will be on stage to showcase their elite talent to the world," said Marion Lay, president and CEO of 2010 LegaciesNow. "ArtsNow will ensure every region of the province benefits from the cultural opportunities that will result from British Columbia hosting the Games."

The funding will be distributed to 32 communities around the province to help increase capacity in the arts, while enhancing youth and community involvement.

The first phase of ArtsNow will provide a total of $4.25 million to support the arts community in B.C. through three separate programs entitled Creative Communities, Catalyst and Innovations. The next round of funding applications will be available to download from the 2010 LegaciesNow web site – www.2010LegaciesNow.com after April 15.

ArtsNow works to enhance the creative and administrative strength of organizations and communities throughout British Columbia through a series of contribution programs and direct activities, to create legacies of the Cultural Olympiad commencing in 2006 and the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. For more information on ArtsNow call 604-659-1400.

2010 LegaciesNow is a not-for-profit society that works in partnership with community organizations, non-government organizations (NGOs), the private sector and all levels of government to develop sustainable legacies in sport & recreation, arts, literacy, and volunteerism. 2010 LegaciesNow actively assists communities discover and create unique and inclusive social and economic opportunities leading up to, during and beyond the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. For more information visit www.2010LegaciesNow.com.

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Media Contact:

Daniel Fontaine
Director, Communications
604-659-1379

Ian Buckley
Communications and Event Coordinator
604-659-1394

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