HOW WE WORK
ArtHome is an entrepreneurial nonprofit that uses minimal infrastructure to create maximum change. We are a next-generation arts-support organization that:
- functions with efficiency and reciprocity
- creates maximum value:
…for artists (primarily low-income)
…for peer constituencies (such as independent workers, small business developers)
…for partners (such as Affordable Housing Coalitions, Peer Lending Organizations, IDA/Match Grant Savings Programs, Banks and Cultural Organizations)
- works across sectors (community development, affordable housing, banking, arts etc)
THE METHODOLOGY OF CHANGE
We believe innovation comes from the activation and adaptation of existing asset-building resources, applied and networked in new ways and for new constituencies. We are committed to building new opportunities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with current asset-building practitioners; by sustainably networking these resources with the cultural community; and by replicating successful practices on an ongoing basis.
ACTIVATION:
ArtHome identifies existing asset-building programs that have good data, scalable practice and successful asset-building paradigms, but that don’t currently serve artists. ArtHome then works with lead stakeholders in these systems to help them build their organizational and financial capacity to serve cultural workers and artists. Examples include: peer lending systems, match grant savings programs, and homebuyer training programs.
NETWORKING:
ArtHome continually looks for new ways and new partners to expand artist access to home-buying, foreclosure prevention, financial literacy, small business start-up, and savings and loan resource opportunities. To catalyze these new asset-building prospects, ArtHome assembles networked coalitions of local funders, lenders, community development leaders, arts organizations and artists.
AMPLIFICATION:
ArtHome brings ongoing value to partners by undertaking or facilitating collaborative work rigorously designed to bring maximum added value to all partners over the long-term. Our work is also built to be easily adaptable by communities across the country. Our core programs are designed from the start to leverage national networks, sister organizations, and local initiatives. Our materials (e.g. our handbooks) are designed to be re-purposed in multiple locations.
THE IMPACT
ArtHome is committed to building a vital new support system for artists: one that fosters both cultural vitality and economic stability. We believe these two factors are essential components of thriving communities. By partnering with key community organizations and stakeholders, ArtHome is committed to strengthening the unique cultural characteristics of our neighborhoods and growing the resources, not just of artists, but also of our peer community development organizations, our neighborhoods and our neighbors.
