Area Groups Among Recipients
Of 2008 VAC Facilities Grants

Four of the 15 recipients of the 2008 Cultural Facilities Grants from Vermont Arts Council announced January 11 in a ceremony at the State House in Montpelier were from the Herald’s coverage area. More than $200,000 was awarded for projects that enhance, create or expand the capacity of an existing Vermont building to provide cultural activities for the public.

Area Award Recipients

•The Norwich Historical Society received $20,000 to support ADA compliance with the installation of a new accessible ramp and bathroom and designated parking area

•The Pierce Hall Community Center in Rochester was awarded $20,000 to support the installation of a heating system.

•The Vt. Independent School of the Arts in Sharon received $15,747 to support the installation of an accessibility lift.

•Barrett Memorial Hall in South Strafford was awarded $7,920 to support the purchase and installation of exterior lighting, stage lighting and for the renovation of the stage floor.

Grant History

This grant program has been in place for 19 years, and in the past five years alone, has provided grants to over 60 organizations throughout the state. The program helps nonprofit organizations and municipalities improve the potential of facilities to provide cultural activities for the public.

It is funded through an annual appropriation in the Capital Budget and for the first time in the history of the program, all recipients will receive the full amount requested in their grant proposals.

Established in 1964, the Vermont Arts Council was designated to receive and disburse state, federal and private funds to support the arts in Vermont. It is the nation’s only state arts agency that is also an independent, non-profit membership organization.

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