If you are a fan of the arts, you already understand how vital they are to a community's culture. What would towns and cities be like without museums, orchestras, zoos and historical societies? They can still exist, but a community that supports the arts adds a richness and depth that nothing else can.
Maybe you have considered taking your interest in the arts further and want to support them in other ways. It's easy for corporations and individuals with plenty of disposable income to do so, but being a supporter of the arts may feel out of reach for the average person.
Luckily, you can support the arts in many ways. Some are financial, but some fall outside of that realm. Here are four ideas you can use if you'd like to grow your support of your local culture.
1. Offer Financial Support
It's hard to ignore the power your financial contribution makes to a nonprofit organization. You don't have to give millions to make a difference. Your local nonprofits appreciate anything donors can provide.
Consider a monthly contribution to a museum, or visit frequently and offer a donation when you do. Perhaps you can donate to the construction of a zoo exhibit in the way that Courtney Lanier Sarofim did at the Houston Zoo.
Consider an annual membership. Your family can enjoy its perks, such as visiting for free or at a reduced rate and discounts on other functions it sponsors. You can also consider making a planned gift to a nonprofit to benefit it during and after your lifetime.
2. Volunteer
What's equally (or, in some cases, more) important than a financial contribution? The answer is to roll up your sleeves and volunteer for your favorite nonprofit. If you can do a job for them that they don't have to pay someone to do, you have benefited them with your time and talents.
You can probably find a volunteer opportunity to match your skills and abilities. Some nonprofits need office workers part-time to answer phones and complete paperwork. Others, such as museums and zoos, need docents to lead and teach visitors. You may also find a nonprofit that needs behind-the-scenes workers if you'd instead work in a less-visible job.
3. Become an Advocate
One way to support the arts that won't cost you a dime is to advocate for them on your social media accounts. You have the potential to reach many people in your network of contacts and friends. Advertise your favorite organizations' upcoming events and fundraisers on your social media pages. Post videos or pictures of yourself visiting or volunteering at the nonprofits you like. Encourage your friends to match donations and therefore increase your financial contribution.
Do you wish that your community had more access to the arts? You can also advocate bringing in a local music program or building a museum. Talk to local representatives about it. Get a few friends and colleagues on board with you and attend public meetings. Express your willingness to help with fundraisers or awareness campaigns. If you're willing to do the work to bring in a program, your representatives may take you more seriously.
4. Visit Frequently
It may go without saying that being present at your favorite nonprofit means a lot. Attending the concerts your local orchestra holds, visiting the library once or twice a week, going to art exhibit openings at the museum — all these events, besides being a lot of fun, show the people who run your nonprofit that you care. You give them your resources of time and money. It's why they exist — to support, teach and enrich the community around them.
The arts in your community make it a better place. You already know that, and you have the opportunity to share your appreciation with your support and advocacy. The chances are that you will also have a lot of fun as you help your favorite nonprofits with your time and other resources.