Media Releases 2007

$220,000 FOR B.C. ARTS ORGANIZATIONS

Vancouver, B.C. (December 12, 2007): 2010 Legacies Now is investing more than $220,000 in 28 arts organizations in 19 communities around the province as part of its commitment to strengthen British Columbia’s arts and cultural sector.

"Arts and culture strengthen communities through increased social interactions and a diversified economy," said Lori Baxter, director of arts for 2010 Legacies Now. "Funds provided through our Innovations program will help B.C. arts organizations engage more community members in creative activities."

2010 Legacies Now, in partnership with the provincial government, encourages and supports creative activities through programs like Innovations, which helps arts, cultural and heritage organizations create new opportunities for community members to participate in arts and cultural activities. Today’s announcement brings 2010 Legacies Now’s overall investment in the arts since 2005 to more than $3.2 million.

"A strong arts and cultural sector leads to social and economic growth in our communities," said Stan Hagen, Minister of Tourism, Sport and the Arts. "The Innovations program supports arts organizations as they develop high-quality works that will draw local audiences, as well as tourists from across the country and around the world."

"We are excited to receive $11,000, which will help us bring carvers, artists and designers together to mentor youth," said Carol Smythe-Doolan, programs and services coordinator for the Gitmaxmak'ay Nisga'a Society. "Through workshops, the youth will learn about wood carving, painting, regalia sewing, drum making and loom beading. They will also join Elders on a tour of the Nass Valley, the homelands of all urban Nisga’a living in the Prince Rupert and Port Edward region."

2010 Legacies Now is committed to increasing community engagement in creative activities, improving the arts and culture sector’s economic base and organizational capacity, and strengthening the sector’s ability to achieve artistic excellence. Assistance is provided through contribution programs and targeted activities developed in consultation with the arts and culture community.

2010 Legacies Now is a not-for-profit society working in partnership with community organizations, non-government organizations, the private sector and all levels of government to develop sustainable legacies in sport and recreation, arts, literacy and volunteerism. 2010 Legacies Now actively assists communities to discover and create inclusive social and economic opportunities leading up to, and beyond, the 2010 Winter Games. For more information, please visit www.2010LegaciesNow.com.

Downloaded Backgrounder in PDF

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Media Contacts:

Karen McDonald
Director, Communications
2010 Legacies Now
Ph: 778.327.5180
Cell: 778.840.8779

Natasha Vander Wal
Manager, Communications
2010 Legacies Now
Ph: 778.327.5189
Cell: 778.840.5189

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