About This Project
Summary
Following back-to-back hurricanes and a devastating state veto that cut $32M in arts funding, WADA Executive Director Markus Gottschlich led a swift and strategic response. He organized a town hall, launched a video advocacy campaign, and called on city officials to increase municipal arts support. Simultaneously, WADA distributed $20K in Artist Emergency Needs Grants to provide immediate relief, while advocating for long-term sustainability of the arts in St. Petersburg.
Goals & Objectives
To stabilize and support St. Pete’s arts community after severe funding losses and hurricane impacts by advocating for increased public funding, uniting local stakeholders, and delivering direct aid to artists through emergency grants.
Results & Impact
Gottschlich’s efforts led to nearly $700K in new city arts funding and WADA’s distribution of $20K in emergency grants. The campaign preserved creative livelihoods, strengthened civic partnerships, and affirmed the arts as essential to community recovery and resilience.
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