For Geile/Leon’s #GLSTL25 campaign, I’ve chosen to highlight the Arts and Education Council of Greater St. Louis.
As someone who has been involved in one artistic endeavor or another throughout most of my life, I can appreciate the value that artistic programs provide. Whether it’s music, dance, theater, literature or fine art, both the creator and the audience benefit from what the arts contribute to our culture.
The Arts and Education Council is the only privately funded organization of it’s kind with reach that benefits the entire St. Louis greater metropolitan area. Since 1963, they have distributed more than $100 million dollars to nearly 70 arts and arts education organizations using only private donations. From the St. Louis Symphony to StudioSTL, A&E allows organizations large and small to continue enriching our area and our lives.
With that type of support, many local artistic organizations are allowed to give grants and scholarships or provide low-cost or free art programs. Children of all socioeconomic backgrounds can be exposed to something beneficial that they may not have otherwise had the opportunity to learn about.
A&E also provides low-cost performance and studio space to 17 non-profit art organizations at the Centene Center for the Arts and Education, located in the Grand Center cultural district.
“The Arts and Education Council enriches the vibrancy of the St. Louis community by investing in arts organizations and growing the base of local arts supporters.”
To help further their cause and keep artistic programs alive and vibrant in our communities, the Arts and Education council continues to need donations and volunteers. Any donation amount is greatly appreciated and any amount at $50 or above earns you an ARTS Card that opens the doors to special offers and discounts to performances and events throughout the year.
As for my part in #GLSTL25, I will be donating $25 to the Arts and Education Council, as well as attending as many artistic events as possible in support of our community.