WASHINGTON NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER

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Programs
Arts in California Parks
Arts in California Parks helps to nourish, educate, and inspire individuals and communities.

Arts in Corrections
A partnership with the CA Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, designed to have a positive impact on the social and emotional well-being of people experiencing incarceration. www.artsincorrections.org

California Creative Corps
A media, outreach, and engagement pilot program designed to support communities statewide following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Creative Economy of California
Building a resilient future for California’s creative economy.

California Cultural Districts
Highlighting some of the thriving cultural diversity and unique artistic identities within local communities across the state. www.caculturaldistricts.org

Poetry Out Loud
Igniting student potential through the power of poetry. An initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts, administered statewide by the California Arts Council. www.capoetryoutloud.org

California Poet Laureate
The Governor’s advocate for the art of poetry. Visit www.capoetlaureate.org.

California Teen Poet Laureate
COMING SOON: State legislation supports the development of the state’s first Youth Poet Laureate program.

Individual Artists Fellowship
Through a network of regionally based Administering Organizations, the Individual Artists Fellowship program will continue to recognize, uplift, and celebrate the excellence of California artists practicing any art form.
About
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Grantee Database

Grant Year

2025-26

Grant Program

General Operating Support

Award Amount

$15,900.00

Project Description

With support from the California Arts Council, the Washington Neighborhood Center will cover increased general operating costs tied to the launch of eight new facilities in Spring 2026. Funds will support staff wages, utilities, insurance, facility maintenance, and essential administrative functions. In addition, the grant will strengthen program delivery through artist stipends, materials, equipment, and venue rentals. This support is critical to sustaining our expanded operations while ensuring all programs remain free and accessible. It reflects our ongoing commitment to equity by removing barriers related to cost, language, and physical accessibility for the communities we serve.

Organization Summary

Our programming is based on our pillars of Cultural Art-Activism, Academic and Career Readiness, and Health and Wellness.
– Danza Azteka Cultural Arts Classes: Celebrating indigenous traditions through dance, music, and storytelling.

– K-12th Grade STEAM events: Integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics to foster curiosity and critical thinking skills.

– Youth and all ages open mic and art gallery: Providing platforms for artistic expression and talent showcase.

– Chicano Drawing Classes: Exploring identity and heritage through visual arts.

– Native Garden and S.T.E.A.M. Soil Lab: Beautifying the community while educating on sustainable practices and indigenous plant species, as well as learning about biology through the soil.

– Art Activism: Using creative expression as a tool for social transformation and awareness.

– Open Wall: Offering a safe space for artists, including “street artists,” to create freely without fear of harassment or prosecution.

– 2 Spirit queer trans job readiness empowerment sessions: Tailored support and resources for marginalized communities seeking economic independence and empowerment.

Grantee Database