In 2009 Congress passed the Serve America Act, which acknowledged the important role of the arts in national service programs administered at the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). Under the legislation's newly formed Education Corps, the placement of skilled artists and musicians in the community is eligible for funding and legislation states that the corps may provide "skilled musicians and artists to promote greater community unity through the use of music and arts education and engagement through work in low-income communities, and education, health care, and therapeutic settings, and other work in the public domain with citizens of all ages."
What's at Stake
While this Artist Corps has yet to emerge, it should be noted that arts and cultural organizations are eligible for for CNCS funding, which provides access to AmeriCorps volunteers and even program development grants.
Making Your Case
National Service and the Arts - Statement of Concern
Grant Opportunities and National Programs (coming soon...)
