Workplace
The 2015 Community Impact Awards: Nonprofit of the Year
By JEANNE LANG JONES October 19, 2015
This article originally appeared in the November 2015 issue of Seattle magazine.
WINNER
ArtsFund
Seattle
Since 1969, ArtsFund has supported the Puget Sound regions arts ecosystem by providing more than $73 million in grants. Local arts groups can use the money as a reliable source of vital, unrestricted operating funds.
ArtsFunds support has been vital to the Puget Sound regions arts and cultural sector, fostering arts experiences that inspire us all, elevate our quality of life, shape our regional identity and make this a great place to live, says CEO Mari Horita.
Recently, ArtsFund rolled out a new crowdfunding platform power2give.org/PugetSound through which individual donations to specific initiatives are matched dollar for dollar. So far, the nonprofit has raised approximately $775,000 from 2,900 donors for 158 arts projects in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties.
Besides money, ArtsFund offers valuable advice. It thoroughly evaluates each organization it funds and provides feedback on improving operations and has a training program for new board members and volunteers.
ArtsFund currently is working on its latest study to assess the economic impact and fiscal health of the regions arts groups.
SILVER AWARD
Childhaven
Seattle
Childhaven has been caring for abused and neglected children since 1909. With branches in Seattle, Burien and Auburn, Childhaven serves more than 300 youngsters a year by providing full-time care, parent training and support, and community outreach and education. A study shows the program is effective. More than 90 percent of the children involved did not experience subsequent abuse or neglect.
Seattle Neighborhood Greenways
Seattle
A coalition of 20 local groups, Seattle Neighborhood Greenways advocates for safe, vibrant streets. Its efforts helped influence the city of Seattle to spend more than $25 million on projects such as Seattle Summer Streets, the Parklets Program and Safe Routes to School. Based on work by coalition members, the Seattle City Council included 245 miles of greenways in the citys Bicycle Master Plan. Next up: providing input as the city prepares pedestrian and transit master plans.