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I have one of the best jobs on the planet! For almost ten years, I have been involved in the arts as a student, working in sales and marketing for major art organizations, and as an independent filmmaker starting up my own production company.  For me, business and art have been the foundation of my professional career. 

While at the Playhouse, I was the Group Sales and Facility Rentals Manager.  I was a department of one.  My time at the Playhouse was the best on-the-job training I could ever have: I learned how to market to various niches, create a budget, analyzed sales cycles, network, and much more. The skills I developed were in the context of an arts organization.  During that time, I knew the skills I was honing would serve me well. 

Little did I know these skills would serve others too.

Six weeks ago I joined the Fine Arts Fund as the new Manager of Multicultural Arts Initiatives.  The reason why I feel I have one of the best jobs on the planet is because I am using my skills to assist five small arts organizations to become more sustainable and self-reliant.  

To accomplish this goal, accelerator support from the Fine Arts Fund has been given in three parts: restricted operating funds, technical support and partnerships. With direct funding, all five organizations are now able to hire staff to either focus on fundraising, marketing or to fill the position of Executive Director.

I provide the technical support.  For the organizations, my role is very much like a coach.  Through an assessment process, I have determined their areas of strength, growth and opportunity. I monitor their progress, give assistance when needed, and provide feedback when necessary, and sometimes an ear to bend.  Each organization is unique and has distinct needs.  For instance, one organization has a large volunteer base, but needs to develop their board, while another organization requires more assistance with their marketing but has a strong board. I design my support around their needs. Additionally, we are providing workshops once a month.  The workshops range from how to write a business plan to how to use social media.

Partnership is the final component of the program.  The five organizations are encouraged to collaborate not only with each other, but to also find other organizations to share ideas, programs, and resources.

The five organizations I work with are ballet tech, Bi-Okoto, Cincinnati Black Theater Company, Elementz and Eye of the Artist.  They all have been given a fantastic opportunity to elevate themselves to the next level.  Despite the injection of funds, my support and various workshops, there is one final ingredient that is missing though. 

You, the theater, dance, music and visual art lover. For true sustainability, the organizations need your support as well.   Go to their performances, volunteer your time, donate a few bucks, and let them know how much you appreciate what they do and how they contribute to the community.

Learn more about these groups: do an on-line search for their websites.  Each site has a description of their art form, calendar of events, a donation button and a volunteer sign up.  You will be glad you did.