Digital Resource & Education Center supported by Thoma Foundation
Announcing Digital Resource & Education Center supported by $100,000 Gift from Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation
Creative Flagstaff, formerly known as Flagstaff Arts Council, is thrilled to announce the creation of the Digital Resource & Education Center located at Coconino Center for the Arts. The Center, proposed to open in January 2022, will offer a lending library of digital equipment and software, training and educational resources, and collaborative space for digital projects.
This significant new program will support Creative Flagstaff’s advocacy and development work as well as support the effectiveness of Flagstaff’s cultural sector of engaging its audience and investors, especially with digital content.
The Center is made possible through the generous support of the Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation which awarded a $100,000 Digital Changemaker Grant in June. Visit the Thoma Foundation website to learn more about their initiatives.
The Thoma Foundation gift makes possible purchasing $50,000 of digital equipment, half-time support staff for one year, and modest enhancements to CCA to support the program. Another $30,000 is estimated to be needed to meet the minimum goals of the program. An additional $10,000 in required critical internet upgrades are planned for the fall so that CCA can support modern hybrid meetings.
Anyone wishing to make a designated gift to the Resource Center should contact Executive Director, Jonathan Stone at 928-779-7019 or jstone@creativeflagstaff.org.
Training & Curriculum
Flagstaff’s cultural nonprofits did a tremendous job pivoting to digital throughout the pandemic. Many efforts were exceptional. The learning curve was challenging. Many want to learn more about how digital can further enhance their programming but also how to use digital to document and share artistic work and productions.
Training and curriculum will emphasize:
- Digital content and storytelling techniques with emphasis on philanthropy and engagement of new audiences.
- Use of the specific equipment and tools available within the Center.
- How cultural sector stakeholders can take advantage of the network of support and marketing partners to get their stories told within Flagstaff and beyond.
With time, training opportunities are expected become more specialized and to support digital artmaking. Mentorship opportunities will also be explored.
Digital Maker Space
To support the resource center, approximately $50,000 of construction is planned to reconfigure underutilized service spaces at CCA. In addition to creating appropriate public spaces for maker and educational functions, the reconfigured spaces allow for the addition of a modest kitchenette and a more functional and appealing green room for concert venue talent.
Funding dependent, new glazing will be installed to improve branding and visibility of the space.
