San Benito County Arts Council

The San Benito County Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting arts, culture, and creativity throughout San Benito County. Its mission is to engage and connect people, communities, and spaces through these elements, aiming to create a thriving community where arts and culture are integral and accessible to all residents[1].

Mission and Vision

The council's mission is centered on fostering diversity, collaboration, and leadership through the arts. It seeks to represent and include all members of the community in its efforts, building sustainable relationships that support collaborative projects[1]. The ultimate vision is for San Benito County to become a vibrant community where arts and culture are diverse, accessible, and integrated into everyday life[1].

Core Values

The San Benito County Arts Council upholds several core values:

• Diversity: Representing and including all community members.
• Collaboration: Developing sustainable relationships to support collaborative projects.
• Leadership: Catalyzing transformational change through the arts.
• Commitment to Excellence and Effectiveness: Aiming for high-quality outcomes in all endeavors[1].

Programs and Services

The organization offers community art classes, where participants can explore various art techniques and mediums. It also hosts a range of events and exhibitions, fostering a dynamic cultural scene in the county[2].

Revenue and Funding

The San Benito County Arts Council generates revenue from grants, contributions, and program services. In recent years, it has received significant funding from organizations such as the David and Lucile Packard Foundation and the Monterey Peninsula Foundation. For example, in 2022, it received a $100,000 grant from the Packard Foundation for local grantmaking, and in 2023, it received $50,000 in operating support from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation[3].

Key Personnel

As of recent updates, the council is led by Jennifer Laine, who serves as the Executive Director. Other key personnel include Enrique Luna as Treasurer and Jonell Casada as President/Director[3].

Impact and Role in the Community

The San Benito County Arts Council plays a significant role as a connector, investor, advocate, and leader in arts programming for the community. It contributes to the cultural vitality of San Benito County, supporting local artistic growth and innovation[4].