Project Name: Family Fun Days/Park Parties
ABOUT THE APPLICANT
Are you applying as a:
Neighborhood organization or association (such as a non-profit)
What is the organization’s name?
Grand Rapids Diversity in Arts and Music Festival, Inc. (dba Grand Rapids African American Arts and Music Festival)
What neighborhood does the organization serve?
Martin Luther King Park Neighborhood & surrounding neighborhoods, Grand Rapids
First and last name?
Kara Wood
Twitter Handle
Facebook Handle
facebook.com/GRAAAMF
Instagram Handle
GRAAAMF
Is the organization a registered 501 (c)3 non-profit?
Yes
ABOUT THE PROJECT
What is the name of the neighborhood where the project will take place? (Please include city/village name too. Example: Mexican Town, Detroit)
Martin Luther King Park Neighborhood, Grand Rapids
Anticipated project launch date
July 20, 2023
Describe your project idea including: a) Is it a project or event? b) What will you do? c) Where will you do it? d) Who, if any, are your project partners?
Three family friendly, free events at MLK Park, focused on celebrating local African- American artists and live music performers. This is the organization’s ongoing effort to celebrate the outstanding contributions of African- American artists through the visual and performing arts and discuss and immerse the community in art, music, dance and free food including the promotion of local artists, organizations and vendors. Partners include the Grand Rapids Public Library and the King Park NA.
How will you engage your community in this project?
The project involves event planning, development and leadership by GR residents for the primary benefit of GR residents. This does not exclude participation by non-residents, however this work is intended to develop and connect GR residents by exploring, understanding and exposing GR residents to African-American art, music, culture and lived experiences of multiple generations. The events invite all GR residents to participate in the cultural celebration and conversation focused on African-American art, music and culture. The events build stronger networked connections among residents by encouraging participation in the conversations with multi-generational African-American artists on topics of social justice and lived experiences in Grand Rapids and beyond.
How will the project celebrate the neighborhood’s diversity? Diversity can include different ages, races, cultures, socio-economic statuses, abilities, and more.
The event will promote diversity by lifting up the voice and talents of GR residents and offer an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the African-American art and culture in a very open and transparent way.
How do you plan to spend the $1,000 microgrant? Please list and explain the items, services, fees, expertise, etc. that you plan to purchase.
$1,000 will be used to partially fund catering services at the park by a local African American-owned caterer.
Will your project require special permits?
Yes
Are you the owner of the property where the project/event will occur?
Rachel’s Notes
Reviewed on 3.29.23. Confirmed member status. Not a neighborhood org but it is a neighborhood event.
ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD’S NEEDS
Why does your neighborhood need this project?
The event will benefit the neighborhood by providing an open, inclusive, safe and welcoming environment to celebrate local African-American art, music and culture with an opportunity to participate in celebration of African-American arts, culture and quality of life in Grand Rapids. There are few of
What do you hope to achieve through this project? Be as specific as possible!
Attendance by 500+ residents over the three events, connections to the community resources showcased at the event and support and recognition of the local African American artists and talent on display. Engagement by MLK residents in arts, music and cultural celebration.
What resources do you already have to make this project successful? Resources could include things like time, partners, expertise, donated goods/materials/space, matching funds, and more.
Grand Rapids Public Library $5,000 and City of Grand Rapids Neighborhood Match Fund $5,000, the nonprofit and the GRPL have spent hours planning and entering into contracts for the artists, food, and other event amenities. The City of Grand Rapids Parks Department and Office of Special Events has also contributed.
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