Community Foundation Silicon Valley believes arts and culture are essential to a healthy, vital community. We envision a Silicon Valley in which the arts engage all types of people, build community and provide diverse cultural experiences.

Creative expression and imagination will help our region continue to flourish.

Why support the arts? Consider these three reasons...

It feels good.

Art has a personal—and positive—effect on individuals. It surfaces emotions, sparks imagination, and uncovers possibilities. Ask people why they love art—chances are you’ll hear that it astonishes, energizes, empowers, inspires, motivates, surprises and teaches. Art touches lives for the better.

It does good.

The value of art goes beyond its beauty and power to move individuals.
Art has societal benefits as well. Research shows that art fuels local economic growth—contributing jobs, advancing tourism, and nurturing the creativity that is a hallmark of our region. Arts education helps kids succeed in school because it improves their ability to learn in other subject areas and increases their self esteem. And art brings people together—fostering social connections, bridging cultural differences, promoting deeper understanding of others, and encouraging civic engagement. Add it all up, and it is clear that art strengthens community.

It’s time now .

State art funding is at an all-time low. California now provides just three cents per person per year, which places our state below almost all in the nation. The decline in arts funding has been dramatic and rapid:

Arts funding in California

2001-02 - $32 million
2002-03 - $18.5 million
2004-05 - $2 million

The loss of funding directly affects artists and arts organizations in our area. This loss in revenue cannot be offset by ticket prices alone—which account for less than half of the actual costs of operating most arts organizations. It’s up to us to stand up for arts in our community.

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How can you help?

Be informed.
Spread the word.
Support the arts.

- As a volunteer
(visit www.artsopolis.com and click on “classifieds” for volunteer opportunities)

- As a ticket buyer
(visit www.artsopolis.com to learn about arts events and buy tickets)

- As a donor
Any gift to any artist or arts organization can make a difference.

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Success Stories

Healing Art: Silicon Valley Arts Groups Welcome Katrina Victims

Reaching Youth Through Art: One Donor's Story

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For Silicon Valley Arts Organizations

Find out more about grant opportunities from the Community Foundation’s Advancing the Arts Initiative and Community Investment grants program.

Find out more about our other services to help you build endowment and your planned giving program.