First Night Monterey, a Monterey-based nonprofit and a California Arts Council grantee, impacts the lives of Central Coast at-risk youth through the visual arts. "Art gives these kids a voice and lets them talk about things they know are wrong and allows them to envision a positive future as opposed to the hopelessness of gangs," notes Kira Carrillo Corser, a teaching artist who is a key part of the program. SEE STORY
At least $250,000 needed to save "Tax Checkoff for the Arts"
Californians can donate to the arts on their state tax returns this year -- but that may go away if the amount collected in 2012 doesn't meet the minimum $250,000. Arts lovers, advocates and celebrities like Maria Shriver are encouraging Californians to Check Off the Arts on their taxes this year and support the California Arts Council. SEE PRESS RELEASE
The California Arts Council will conduct a peer-review panel of applications to a variety of the agency's programs during spring 2012. The panel review process is open to the public. SEE PRESS RELEASE
