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New EZ 1-2-3 Grants Popular with Small Organizations!
In its first few months, the Iowa Arts Council’s EZ 1-2-3 grants are becoming popular among schools and small organizations across the state that are seeking funds to hire IAC-rostered artists.
Fourteen organizations have been awarded a total of $4,485, with each request ranging from just $150 to the maximum $500. These quick and “EZ” grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and are attractive to schools and smaller non profit organizations looking to bring in an artist for a one-day residency or a one-time performance. Aside from the quick response and notification (within two weeks of receipt of application), EZ 1-2-3 grants have no deadline. Applications are reviewed daily during normal office hours until all available funds are awarded.
Dunkerton Elementary School applied for, and received, $250 to hire storyteller Dorian Byrd for a reading/storytelling event for the school and community. “Watch the Stars” is a family night geared for pre-kindergarten through 6th grade students, with older students welcome and all citizens invited. Selected adults read stories and do activities with small groups of children and adults. Afterward, the participants gather for the featured storyteller (Byrd), then “watch the stars” - glow-in-the-dark stars attached to the school library ceiling, while listening to space music.
Judi Siler, librarian with the Dunkerton Elementary School, applied for the grant after being referred by Byrd.
“It was very advantageous for our small school and the process is so friendly,” Siler said.
For more information on how you can apply for an EZ 1-2-3 grant, visit www.iowaartscouncil.org/funding/ez-1-2-3-grant/index.shtml
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