Hood River Cultural Trust awards local arts projects

The six organizations receiving grants ranging between $500 and $1,500 each, will use their funds to create music, share literature and support engaging art and heritage projects for youth in the coming year ahead.

The HRCT began in 2002 as the result of a community-wide survey that sought to include citizen priorities in developing a cultural plan for the county.

“We updated that original plan about three years ago,” said Sturman, “and have been using those priorities to fund grants since we began.”

The HRCT gains its annual funding from donations made to the statewide nonprofit, Oregon Cultural Trust. Hood River County receives about $7,500 per year, based on local population size. OCT also receives funds from the sale of specialized license plates sold through Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles.

“People can donate to the Oregon Cultural Trust all year long, but a donation before the end of the year will net a tax-credit for this year’s taxes,” said Sturman. A tax credit is of greater benefit to the taxpayer than a standard donation in that it is credited (100 percent) against taxes owed.

This year’s lucky nonprofit grant awardees are as follows:

n Columbia Gorge Arts in Education will collaborate with The Confluence Project to produce a documentary film and writing anthology of Gorge Native American artists produced by HRVHS multi-media students.

n Columbia Gorge Community College will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its Spring Humanities series, bringing back favorite presenters and authors from years past.

n Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association will support quality vocal and symphony performances with funding for its conductor.

n HRVHS Asian Club will present two Portland Taiko drumming performances at HRVHS and HRMS plus undertake a service learning trip to the Hood River Japanese Garden.

n Klahre House Alternative School will have students produce Tibetan Peace Flags under the direction of a local artist incorporating student writings on experiencing peace through creativity.

n St. Francis House of Odell will provide under-served youth field trips, performances, and lessons in a variety of World Music traditions.

For more information on the Hood River Cultural Trust, please visit hoodriverculturaltrust.org.

To learn how to donate to the Oregon Cultural Trust or to receive a tax credit for your donation visit culturaltrust.org.