West DSM News

At its Feb. 20 meeting, the Windsor Heights City Council heard a presentation from Bravo Greater Des Moines Executive Director Sally Dix about the organization's work providing funding, resources and support for arts and culture in the community.

The organization was started in 2004 by a group of nine partner municipalities. It has since grown to include 17 communities. Dix shared information about their work to the council and also spoke about their new strategic plan that runs through 2025.

“The arts and culture are uniquely positioned to advance those regional priorities,” Dix said in the meeting. “So everything from talent attraction, retention, workforce diversity, equity and inclusion, these are the four things that guide Bravo's work to make sure that we're alive to culture. So we have every day, everywhere art: more art, more places, more people. We have strengthened the creative economy, making sure our creative professionals feel connected to the resources available in the community, to other small businesses and other professionals. Cultural tapestry: We certainly want to make sure that everyone that lives in our community sees themselves in the arts, culture and heritage that is presented and represented and funded, especially with public dollars. And then, of course, youth connections. We know that more access to arts and culture that young people have, it makes them better grownups.”

The strategic plan has four pillars: Support, Connect, Amplify and Cultivate; a document on the Bravo Greater Des Moines website said. Support is through investing in specific and strategic cultural programs and organizations along with continuing grant support work. Connect is building relationships with programs and organizations and partner groups so they can support and grow while helping each other with resources. Amplify is focusing on showcasing and promoting cultural and heritage arts within the community, making sure that groups are heard and celebrated. Cultivate is creating opportunities for future leaders and artists.

The organization has facilitated $50 million in funding since 2006, Dix said. Last year they funded 78 cultural programs in 11 communities. Investments ranged from $1,000 to $395,000 in the most recent grant cycle. Annual operating budgets for organizations supported are from $2,500 to $18 million, although 66% of the organizations have annual operating budgets of less than $250,000. 

“We are most known for our grantmaking work and we are incredibly proud of that,” Dix said.

Bravos Greater Des Moines has ensured that all elementary schools in their partner communities are funded between $3.50 and $6.50 for students to receive arts and cultural experiences and education. The organization will also be conducting an economic impact study soon.

The council expressed that they were eager to continue their support and funding for the program.