This season is marked by occasions of giving and of giving thanks. In recent years, the first Tuesday after the Thanksgiving Holiday (and–more to the point–Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday) has been designated as Giving Tuesday–an opportunity to shift focus away from retail gift-buying toward charitable gift-giving.
As you consider the question of how best to give and to whom, we hope you’ll consider showing your appreciation for Arizona’s many outstanding nonprofit arts organizations. There are as many worthy organizations as there are ways to show your gratitude. Which have meant the most to you, your family, and your community in the past year?
Cash contributions are, of course, always welcome, but a nonprofit arts organization can also make great use of your time, a particular skill set you possess, or access to your peer network. What’s the best way to give? Reach out to a favorite nonprofit arts organization and ask.
Another way you can show your appreciation this season is to nominate your favorite Arizona artist, arts educator, arts organization, or arts supporters for a Governor’s Arts Award. Each year, our friends at Arizona Citizens for the Arts partner with the Office of the Governor to honor individuals, organizations, and businesses throughout our state for their contributions to Arizona’s arts sector. The nomination deadline is Friday, December 11, so don’t delay! Submit your nominations today.
Lastly, you can simultaneously show your appreciation for a local artist or arts organization and give a thoughtful and meaningful gift to a loved one. Odds are, someone on your list would love a membership to a local museum, tickets to an upcoming performance, a pottery class, a creative writing workshop, or a crash course in digital photography. Arts experiences are available at all price points, but their real value cannot be measured.
