The Rochester Area Community Foundation (RACF) offers the "Vitality Grants: Arts Education" program, which is aimed at fostering regional vitality by increasing equitable access to arts education. The grant is designed to strengthen the capacity of local arts organizations to deliver PreK-12 arts education programming. This initiative aims to ensure that all students, regardless of their location or circumstances, can access a diverse array of vibrant arts and cultural experiences. The primary goal is to support arts education that can enhance students' engagement, enjoyment, and passion for the arts.

The grant program invites applications from nonprofit organizations involved in arts education connected to schools or community groups. The specific areas of focus for the grant are: increasing arts access, improving geographic arts equity, and enhancing student engagement with the arts. Organizations can apply for flexible funding to support their capacity building, operations, and/or programming needs. This includes funding for arts programming in disciplines like visual arts, music, dance, and performance, as well as necessary materials and supplies. Additionally, support services such as transportation, childcare, and food assistance can be funded to reduce participation barriers and increase access to arts education. Professional development opportunities for staff and teaching artists are also eligible for funding, which can help strengthen program quality and organizational capacity.

The typical grant size ranges from $5,000 to $10,000. The program is open to 501(c)(3) organizations or 509(a)(1) public organizations operating in the eight-county region of Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates counties in New York State. Non-501(c)(3) groups can also apply, but they must secure a fiscal sponsor. The grant specifically supports PreK-12 arts education programming provided at schools or community organizations. Collaborations with other organizations are encouraged, and applicants must demonstrate a commitment to collecting feedback through surveys from participants.

The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, March 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM, and grant decisions will be announced in June 2025. The application period opens on Monday, February 10, 2025. Applications should be submitted via the RACF’s online grant portal. Interested applicants can contact Annette Jiménez Gleason, the Senior Program Officer, for further information. She can be reached at 585-341-4372 or by email at ajimenezgleason@racf.org. The RACF office is located at 500 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607.