DAVENPORT, IOWA (November 25, 2024) — Azubuike African American Council for The Arts is proud to announce that it has been awarded three significant grants, which will collectively enhance our capacity to inspire, educate, and engage underserved youth in the Quad Cities. These grants reflect our commitment to bridging racial divides, amplifying African American culture, and fostering meaningful connections through the arts.
Regional Development Authority (RDA) Grant
The Regional Development Authority (RDA) has awarded Azubuike a grant for its project, “Building Sustainable Engagement and Expanding Arts for Underserved Youth.” This grant will strengthen Azubuike’s organizational capacity and support initiatives that:
- Deepen youth engagement in arts programming.
- Increase outreach to underserved communities.
- Build the infrastructure necessary to sustain impactful programs.
This support directly complements the ArtsHERE grant by focusing on strategic growth and ensuring that Azubuike can continue to serve as a cornerstone for arts and culture in the Quad Cities.
ArtsHERE Capacity-Building Grant
On behalf of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), South Arts, and the other five US Regional Arts Organizations, Azubuike has been awarded an ArtsHERE grant for its project, “Building a Bridge to the Arts and Culture for the Black Diaspora.” This grant is designed to amplify arts participation and foster long-term engagement with underserved groups.
The ArtsHERE initiative will enable Azubuike to:
- Strengthen cultural competency and equity in its programming.
- Expand community partnerships and peer-learning opportunities.
- Develop sustainable strategies to increase access to the arts for underserved youth of color.
Together, these capacity-building grants provide a comprehensive framework for Azubuike to scale its programs and maximize its impact on the community.
Hubbell-Waterman Foundation Grant
The Hubbell-Waterman Foundation has generously approved a Program and Initiatives Challenge Grant to support Azubuike’s Pulling Focus African American Film Festival of The Quad Cities. This grant ensures the continued success of this signature event, which highlights African American voices and promotes social awareness through powerful storytelling.
The Pulling Focus African American Film Festival is a regional cultural highlight featuring films that address critical social issues, celebrate diverse perspectives, and foster community dialogue. This funding will allow Azubuike to:
- Provide free screenings for the community.
- Offer professional workshops and panel discussions.
- Expand the festival’s reach through virtual screenings and promotional efforts.
Gratitude to Our Supporters
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Regional Development Authority, the National Endowment for the Arts, South Arts, the Hubbell-Waterman Foundation, and all our partners for their belief in Azubuike’s mission. Your support allows us to empower underserved youth, celebrate African American culture, and create lasting change in the Quad Cities.
About Azubuike African American Council for The Arts
Azubuike African American Council for The Arts is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Davenport, Iowa. Founded in 2014, Azubuike is committed to reconciling racial divides and inspiring underserved youth through arts programs, including the Urban Exposure Summer Film Program and the Pulling Focus African American Film Festival. Azubuike empowers individuals and strengthens the community by fostering creativity, cultural appreciation, and self-expression.
Learn more at Azubuike’s Website: https://www.azubuikearts.org/ or Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/AzubuikeCouncilForTheArts.
