WHAT
The Funding Arts Network, FAN, formerly fifty over fifty, is a non-profit 501[C]3 organization dedicated to the cultural enrichment of the Miami-Dade community by providing a new funding source for local visual and performing arts programs.
WHEN
Established in 1996 with an initial goal of 50 members, each contributing $1,000 to an annual funding pool for the arts. The first grant awards were made in December 1996 to seven organizations receiving a total of $50,600. In 2011 FAN awarded $200,000 to 35 organizations and presented a joint award with the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation of $25,000 for a new work. Over its 15-year history FAN has provided nearly three million dollars in grants to the visual and performing arts.
WHY
At a time of exciting developments in the arts, yet declining government and corporate support, private philanthropy must provide leadership in funding arts programs. FAN offers a new source of support for the arts and provides a vehicle for expanding education, involvement and appreciation of the arts for its members. By pooling our membership dollars together we make a larger impact in our community.
WHO
Approximately 200 members.
HOW
Each member contributes $1,000 per year, creating an annual arts support fund. There is no fundraising. A competitive grants program provides awards yearly to non-profit visual and performing arts organizations for presentation in Miami-Dade County. Grant finalists are selected through a rigorous screening process in which member screening teams review and discuss the applications submitted by the arts organizations. All members vote on final grant award recipients. FAN provides professional training in grant evaluation to its members.
Quarterly membership meetings showcase new trends, developments and issues related to the visual and performing arts. They feature panel discussions among leaders in the local arts community and provide a lively forum for expanding awareness and understanding of the arts today.
Cultural Camaraderie “where friend meet friends to support the arts” is a way for FAN members to keep showing their support by attending programs that FAN has funded.