When I assumed the position of Erie Arts and Culture’s Executive Director in May 2023, I discovered that the organization was at a juncture that required us to explore fundamental questions about our identity, activities, and purpose. Over the years, EAC has made significant contributions to the communities it serves, earning the affection of Erie and recognition as a leader and a source of knowledge throughout Northwest Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth. Since its founding in 1960, EAC has taken on many roles, benefiting communities across the years. However, this versatility has sometimes made it challenging for those who need us most to find and fully connect with us, due to a lack of clarity regarding our mission and operations.
ANNE O’DELL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Now, more than ever, Erie Arts and Culture must provide clear direction for itself and those we are here to serve. It is essential that we articulate our purpose and intentions as a nonprofit arts and culture organization with precision. This strategic plan is crafted to offer the clarity needed about EAC's identity, objectives, and the rationale behind our chosen goals, detailing the actions our staff and Board will undertake over the next three years to serve Northwestern Pennsylvania. This document addresses pivotal questions: What does EAC do? What can the community expect from our staff and board in the coming years? And why EAC?
Looking ahead, there is considerable growth to achieve in serving Northwest Pennsylvania through our core program areas of Arts Education, Folk and Traditional Arts, and grantmaking through the Arts, Culture, and Creative Entrepreneurship program. Erie Arts and Culture is poised for expansion and fully embraces its role as a regional arts agency to enhance the vibrancy of this region we all call home. I invite you to delve into this plan and familiarize yourself with our organization. You can find each EAC team member’s contact information on our website, and we are eager to hear from you. We look forward to having you join us on this exciting journey!
Sincerely,
ABOUT ERIE ARTS AND CULTURE
WHO WE ARE
At the heart of Erie Arts and Culture lies a deep commitment to the arts as a catalyst for positive change, reinforced by our dedication to sustainable development. We elevate the artistic narrative of our region, inspire through dynamic experiences, and connect diverse cultures and communities through the arts. These core values drive our mission to make the arts an integral part of every community member's life Together, our cohesive efforts ensure every initiative not only resonates across our region but also generates and sustains the backing needed to thrive, benefiting all stakeholders involved.
WHAT WE DO
Our actions are guided by a commitment to enhance the arts throughout our region. Acting as a channel, we facilitate the flow of ideas and relationships to support and energize artistic ventures As funders, we not only provide financial contributions to nurture and sustain the arts but also strategically mobilize resources to ensure the growth and prosperity of the cultural sector. As connectors, we unite artists, organizations, and communities, cultivating a rich, collaborative arts scene Our team efforts are designed specifically to attract support and community engagement throughout our region.
HOW WE DO IT
The planned approach taken to foster a thriving arts community is dynamic and multifaceted. We aim to engage directly with our audience through in-person events, harness the power of digital innovation for wider connectivity, and reinforce our presence throughout the region with tangible branding. These efforts are closely aligned with our organizational goals to enhance regional interaction and support. By integrating digital campaigns and targeted community events, we build enduring relationships with supporters and lay a strong foundation for sustained growth.
OUR STRATEGY AND COMMITMENTS
CORE VALUES AND EQUITY
Our commitment to supporting a vibrant arts community is rooted in our core values of Innovation and Responsiveness, Well-being, Inclusiveness, and Ethical Integrity. These values guide every decision, ensuring our strategies are both sustainable and impactful By prioritizing equity, we extend the reach of our programs to underrepresented groups and ensure that our efforts benefit all communities, reflecting our dedication to making the arts accessible and enriching for every resident.
Innovation and Responsiveness: Our team will embrace creative solutions and adapt to the evolving needs of our community, fostering a dynamic and forward-thinking environment.
Well-being: We prioritize the holistic health of our community, recognizing that the arts play a crucial role in enhancing mental, emotional, and social well-being.
Inclusiveness: We are committed to creating a welcoming and accessible environment for all, celebrating diversity and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with the arts.
Ethical Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and accountability in all our actions and decisions.
OUR STRATEGIC APPROACH
The methodology to create this plan included staff and board retreats and stakeholder interviews. This plan integrates regional collaboration, economic development initiatives, inclusive engagement, and cultural advocacy As part of our commitment to organizational excellence, we are prioritizing recording and reporting data to ensure activities are captured accurately, contributing to a resilient community where programs and their impacts are clear and transparent.
EXPANDING OUR REACH
Through the goals and actions in this strategic plan, Erie Arts and Culture will enhance the quality of life in Northwestern Pennsylvania. We connect artists with opportunities, audiences with transformative experiences, and diverse groups, creating a network where arts and culture are integral to community development. Our strategic plan is not just a roadmap for our organization; it's a blueprint for enriching the entire region.
OUR GOALS
Erie Arts and Culture is embarking on a transformative journey with the launch of our strategic plan for 2024 and beyond. This plan serves as a roadmap, outlining our collective aspiration to reinforce the cultural foundation of Northwestern Pennsylvania through focused efforts and community collaboration. At this pivotal moment, we are committed to driving sustainable growth, fostering a rich arts ecosystem, and advocating for policy and program initiatives that reflect the diverse needs of our region.
As you turn the pages, you will discover how each of our programs and departments align with these goals, embodying our commitment to equity and excellence This overview serves as a blueprint for action, detailing the specific initiatives and approaches we will undertake to achieve our vision.
Erie Arts and Culture plays a pivotal role in identifying, supporting, and elevating traditional artists across the six-county region of Northwestern Pennsylvania. By assisting traditional artists in maintaining their practices and increasing community awareness of folk arts, we ensure the continuationofculturalidentitiesandcohesionacrossgenerations.Thiseffortisparticularlycrucialfor underserved and financially disadvantaged communities, such as New Americans and rural practitioners,helpingthemtoflourishandenrichingtheregion'sculturallandscape.
ACHIEVINGOURGOALS
In our mission to expand community awareness, EAC will connect organizations with folk and traditional artists to advise on the presentation of cultural arts. Initiatives like the Refugee Owned BusinessDirectory,ethnicmarkettours,andfolkart residencies will play a crucial role in educating the public and celebrating our region’s rich cultural diversity
Todocumentandsupportdiversecultures,wewill conduct extensive fieldwork across all six counties, with aims to identify and document a significant number of new artists each year. This proactive approach ensures the continual discovery and support of traditional artists, safeguarding the region'sculturalheritage
OUR GOALS
DOCUMENT AND SUPPORT DIVERSE CULTURES
INCREASE ACCESS TO RESOURCES FOR CULTURE BEARERS
To increase access to resources for culture bearers, we plan to provide ample presentation opportunities in educational and community settings, promote relevant grants, and assist with applications. By embedding traditional artists into the Arts Education roster and offering mentorship, we aim to elevate the presence and impact of folk arts within the broader arts ecosystem
Defining and developing the folk and traditional arts program area will involve research, adaptation of current programming, and the creation of a robust infrastructure to support the efforts of a dedicated Folk and Traditional Arts Program Officer Through these comprehensive steps, Erie Arts and Culture commits to preserving, celebrating, and amplifying the folk and traditional arts, ensuring they remain a vibrant and integral part of Northwestern Pennsylvania's cultural identity.
ARTS, CULTURE, AND CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Our Arts, Culture, and Creative Entrepreneurship (ACCE)programempowersartists,artsorganizations, andcreativeentrepreneurswithessentialresourcesto achievetheirambitions.
TheACCEprogramprovidesvitalsocial,educational,and financial resources to the region's artists, arts organizations,andcreativeentrepreneurs.Byleveraging our expertise and extensive network, we dynamically respond to the evolving needs of Northwestern Pennsylvania's creative community. Our commitment extends across the region, aiming to strengthen our influenceandaccessibilitytoensuretheprosperityand visibilityoftheartsandculturesector.
ACHIEVING OUR GOALS
OUR GOALS
BUILD AND ENHANCE REGIONAL NETWORKS
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND RESOURCES
DIRECT FINANCIAL SUPPORT
ECONOMIC IMPACT AWARENESS
The ACCE program plays a crucial role in amplifying the organization's influence as a regional arts agency across our current six-county region By building and enhancing regional networks, we're establishing EAC as a central hub for artists, arts organizations, and creative entrepreneurs, ensuring that their valuable work receives the support and visibility it deserves.
Our commitment to professional development and resources is foundational to the ACCE program's strategy. By providing artists and cultural workers with access to workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities, we're not only fostering their individual growth but also enhancing the collective strength of our region's arts and culture sector. Meanwhile, our goal of direct financial support reflects our understanding of the practical challenges faced by the creative community. Through strategic funding and grant assistance, we're enabling artists and organizations to realize their projects and initiatives, contributing to a vibrant and sustainable cultural ecosystem.
Recognizing the significance of the arts and culture sector to the regional economy, our focus on economic impact awareness involves tracking, measuring, and advocating for its contributions. By highlighting the sector's economic benefits, we're reinforcing the case for continued investment and support from both the public and private sectors.
In embracing these goals, the ACCE program is dedicated to fostering a thriving arts community in Northwestern Pennsylvania. Through our concerted efforts to enhance regional networks, offer professional development opportunities, provide direct financial support, and raise economic impact awareness, we're setting the stage for a future where arts and culture are recognized as essential pillars of our community's prosperity and well-being.
ARTS EDUCATION
Erie Arts and Culture's Arts Education program fosters meaningful encounters between teachingartistsandcommunitymembersthroughartsresidencies.
In partnership with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, EAC's Arts Education program connects teaching artists with community members through impactful arts residencies. Serving a broad demographicacrossoursix-countyregion,theprogramemphasizescreativity,collaboration,critique, and cross-disciplinary learning. Focused on inclusivity, we prioritize residencies funded by our partnershipwithPCA,aimingtomakethesetransformativeartsexperiencesaccessibletoall.
ACHIEVINGOURGOALS
Toequitablyservetheregion,wearedevisingstrategiestoensurethefairdistributionofresources, aiming for a balanced impact across Northwestern Pennsylvania. This involves continuous dialogue with educational and organizational leaders to assess and address specific needs, ensuring our residenciesenhanceartscurriculaandcontributetotheculturalvitalityofeachcommunity.
Expandingartistinresidencyopportunities is about recognizing and filling the gaps in arts access for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities Initiatives like engaging consultants for regional mappinganddevelopingtargetedstrategiesaimtoconnectawideraudiencewiththetransformative power of the arts. This approach not only broadens participation but also deepens engagement, fosteringarich,inclusiveartsculturethroughoutourservicearea.
OUR GOALS
EQUITABLY SERVE THE REGION
EXPAND ARTIST RESIDENCY OPPORTUNITIES
FACILITATE REGIONAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR ARTS EDUCATORS
In our pursuit to facilitate regional professional development for arts educators and our teaching artists, we're committed to leveraging partnerships and innovating new platforms for growth and exchange. By continuing initiatives such as the Regional Common In-Service Day and quarterly meetups, alongside developing new professional development tools, we support the ongoing learning and career advancement of our educators, ensuring they remain at the forefront of arts education practices.
Through these focused efforts, Erie Arts and Culture's Arts Education program aspires to be a cornerstone of arts learning in Northwestern Pennsylvania, sparking curiosity, nurturing creativity, and building a stronger, more connected community through the power of the arts
ErieArtsandCulture’sroleasaRegionalArtsAdvocatehighlightsourcommitmenttoleadershipand innovationinartsandculturalpolicyandinitiativesthroughoutNorthwesternPennsylvania.Asleaders in creative entrepreneurship, arts education, and folk and traditional arts, we aim to increase awarenessandconnectivityacrosstheregionwhileadvocatingfortheintegralroleofartsandculture incommunitydevelopment.
OUR GOALS
SUPPORT AWARENESS AND CONNECTIVITY
BECOME A REGIONAL LEADER IN OUR CORE PROGRAM AREAS
ADVOCATE FOR EAC’S ROLE IN ARTS AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
ACHIEVINGOURGOALS
To support awareness and connectivity, we are committed to building and nurturing arobustnetworkofrelationshipsacrossthe sixcountieswecurrentlyserve.Thisnetwork will increase host sites, expand the pipeline of applicants, and facilitate the documentation of diverse cultures. Consistentengagementandclearmessaging willcultivatemeaningfulrelationshipswithin the arts and culture sector across NorthwesternPennsylvania.
By aiming to become a regional leader in our core program areas, we will leverage our established networks and expertise to enhance the reach and impact of our initiatives Documenting and sharing the //////
transformative power of these programs through data collection and impact reports will educate stakeholders and underscore the sector's significance.
Our advocacy efforts will use program theory and evaluation tools to advocate for EAC’s role in arts and community development. By collecting and analyzing data, we empower ourselves to effectively communicate the transformative impact of arts and culture. Sharing successes, such as the Creative Crowd program model, and participating in national arts networks, positions EAC as a paradigm of regional arts advocacy excellence.
Through these strategic efforts, Erie Arts and Culture will not only champion the arts and culture sector at the local, regional, and state levels but also inspire other communities to recognize and harness the transformative power of the arts in driving community development and enriching lives.
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
OUR GOALS
SUPPORT DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS AND FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGNS
ENHANCE BOARD AND STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
INCREASE BRAND AWARENESS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Effective marketing and communications are essential for Erie Arts and Culture to disseminate our mission, engage the community, and garner support.
At Erie Arts and Culture, we recognize the importance of clear and resonant messaging. Our updated marketing plan focuses on standardizing communication and enhancing brand awareness across Northwestern Pennsylvania, ensuring our mission and programs effectively reach and engage our audience. Through strategic outreach, innovative campaigns, and consistent branding efforts, we aim to develop a deeper connection with the region and amplify our impact.
ACHIEVINGOURGOALS
To support development efforts and fundraising campaigns, our Marketing and Development departments will collaborate closely to create compelling print and digital materials. Our aim is to assist in conveying the impact of our programs and the value of contributing to our mission This includes everything from designing collateral for fundraising initiatives to refining our messaging based on analytics and feedback to ensure our campaigns are effective and resonate with potential supporters
Enhancingboardandstaffcommunications involves developing targeted strategies to engage our boardmembersmoredeeplyandsupportrecruitmentefforts.Byutilizingmarketingtools,weaimto foster a stronger connection with our board, ensuring they are well-informed and equipped to advocate for Erie Arts Culture within their networks. The planned hiring of key positions within our organization will also be supported by our marketing initiatives, as we use our platforms to promote theseopportunitiesandsupportthefundraisingneededtosustaintheseadditionalroles.
Increasingbrandawarenessandcommunityengagement is a critical objective for our marketing efforts. By creating consistent, clear communication standards, we aim to elevate Erie Arts and Culture'spresenceinourserviceregion Thisincludesleveragingsocialmedia,ourwebsite,andother digitalplatformstosharestoriesofourimpact,highlightourprograms,andengagewithbothcurrent andpotentialsupporters.
Erie Arts and Culture’s development strategy focuses on engaging supporters, sharing our mission,andbuildingasustainablefinancialfuture.
Our development efforts at Erie Arts and Culture are designed to highlight our dedication to community service and strategic goals. Over the next three years, we aim to increase donations, reduce reliance on grant funding, and strengthen our financial stability to ensure continued support forourmissioninNorthwesternPennsylvania
OUR GOALS
LEGACY GIVING AND DONOR CULTIVATION REBUILD CASH RESERVES
STRENGTHEN COLLABORATIVE RELATIONSHIPS
EMPOWER BOARD AND STAFF IN FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
ACHIEVINGOURGOALS
To rebuild cash reserves, we are working closely with our newly implemented financial advisor to strategize and launchcomprehensivefundraisingcampaigns Initiativeslike monthlydonorlettersandend-of-yeargivingcampaignsare designed to deepen relationships with established donors and cultivate new ones, ensuring a robust foundation for ourfinancialhealth.
Legacy giving and donor cultivation are central to our long-term sustainability plan. By identifying potential legacy donors and fostering connections through targeted outreach, such as hosting informational luncheons, we aim to secure future resources that will support EAC's mission foryearstocome.
Strengthening collaborative relationships with donors and community leaders through intimate gatherings will enhance our network, enabling us to share our vision and garner support from a broad spectrum of the community. These relationships are essential for fostering a culture of giving and investment in the arts. Additionally, empowering our board and staff in fundraising efforts involves comprehensive training and resources to enhance their ability to engage potential donors effectively. From identifying prospects to understanding the nuances of legacy giving, we're committed to equipping our team with the tools they need to succeed in fundraising initiatives.
Through targeted fundraising for staff capacity and critical positions such as the Executive Assistant, Development Associate, Folk and Traditional Arts Program Officer, and Marketing Associate, we are laying the groundwork for operational excellence. Each role is vital to our mission, and securing the necessary funding for these positions will enable us to deliver on our promise to the community. Overall, Erie Arts and Culture aims to secure a resilient financial future, enabling us to continue enriching the cultural landscape of Northwestern Pennsylvania through the arts.
ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS
OPERATIONSANDFINANCEOVERVIEW
Erie Arts and Culture places a high priority on operational excellence and financial sustainability as fundamental to our mission's success A robust operational framework and a strong financial foundation are crucial for enabling our wide rangeofcommunity-focusedartsprograms.
ACHIEVINGOURGOALS
OUR GOALS
EXPLORATION OF PROPERTY ACQUISITION LONG-TERM OPERATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY
Byfocusingonlong-termoperationalsustainability,ErieArtsandCultureseekstoestablishastable financial footing that supports our mission and enables us to respond effectively to the community's needs. This involves engaging financial advisors to optimize cash management and endowment strategies,layingasolidfoundationforfuturegrowthandimpact.
The exploration of property acquisition reflects our strategic vision for expansion and deepened community engagement. Through a detailed feasibility study, we will carefully evaluate the potential benefitsandimplicationsofacquiringproperty,ensuringthatanymoveforwardalignswithourlongtermobjectivesandoperationalneeds.
PUBLICARTOVERVIEW
Public Art enriches our communities by integrating art into the public realm, fostering engagement, and enhancing the built environment. Erie Arts and Culture aims to contributetothisvibrantaspectofcommunity life through thoughtful collaboration and strategicinitiatives.
OUR GOAL
COLLABORATE ON AND EXPLORE PUBLIC ART INITIATIVES
ACHIEVINGOURGOALS
Through collaboration on public art projects, we aim to contribute to the vibrancy of our region, supporting initiatives that bring art into public spaces and engage the community in meaningful ways. These partnerships will leverage our expertiseandresourcestoensurethesuccessand impactofpublicartinitiatives.
Simultaneously, we will explore the feasibility of a Public Art Program, undertaking a comprehensive studytoassessitspotentialroleandimpactwithin EAC's operations. This initiative will consider all aspectsofimplementingsuchaprogram,including funding,staffing,andpolicydevelopment.
While operations and finance provide the backbone for our organizational health and effectiveness, publicartrepresentsadynamicexpressionofourcommitmenttoenhancingcommunitylifethrough art. Together, these elements underscore Erie Arts and Culture's multifaceted strategy to foster a thrivingartsecosysteminNorthwesternPennsylvania.
OUR VISION
Creating a future where the arts remain the heartbeat of every community in Northwestern Pennsylvania.
Erie Arts and Culture serves as the beacon of cultural vibrancy and economic growth. As stewards of this vision, we enable individuals and organizations to create the vibrant lives, communities, and businesses they envision. Through our leadership, we catalyze change, model inclusivity, and drive development, ensuring the arts continually reflect, enrich, and inspire our evolving region.