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Fund the Arts and Boost the Economy

A Message from PCS Board President, Debbie Clark
February 17, 2011

We all know the pinch of higher prices and smaller paychecks, so we recognize the challenges our legislature must face in creating a workable state budget. But, as responsible citizens, we must remind our lawmakers that the arts in North Carolina are essential to our economic well-being and are not a frivolous extra. As the North Carolina Arts Council points out:

Arts funding creates jobs. For every 100 jobs in the arts, an additional 29 jobs are created in other industries. The creative sector creates and sustains nearly 300,000 jobs, or 5.5% of North Carolina’s workforce.

Arts funding improves public education. Creativity is a necessity in today’s global economy. Creativity is our business and inherent in arts training.

Arts funding attracts tourists. It revitalizes cities and towns. For every $1 invested in public funding, arts nonprofit organizations raise an additional $17. This money stays in the community and multiplies in support of printers and designers, restaurants, retail, and services.

Arts funding gives more than it gets. The return in economic impact (wages, taxes, goods, services) returns money to the state. The creative industry in North Carolina contributes more than $41 billion dollars in goods and services.

How can you help? Feed your soul! Attend performances by PCS and others, go to exhibits, listen and absorb and learn. Contribute to the Arts Council of W-S/FC’s 2011 Campaign. And call, write or e-mail your elected representatives. Let them know that funding for the arts is not just important, it is VITAL to our communities.