IDA Documentary Awards 2009
Early bird Deadline is June 11, 2009!
Enter Online Now!
The IDA Documentary Awards is the foremost event dedicated to the art of documentary film. All winners will be announced at the IDA Documentary Awards in Los Angeles on December 4, 2009. To apply for IDA Documentary Awards, please go to Withoutabox.com to submit your entry online.
IDA Distinguished Award Main Categories
FEATURE: Individual, stand-alone documentary, more than 40 minutes long. Student feature projects not eligible in this category and should submit as an entry in the IDA/David L. Wolper Award below. Award recipient - Limited to two persons, one of whom must be the credited Director who exercised directorial control, and the other of whom must have a Producer or Director credit.
SHORT: Individual, stand-alone documentary, less than or equal to 40 minutes long. Student short projects not eligible in this category, and should submit as an entry in the IDA/David L. Wolper Award below. Award recipients - Limited to two persons, one of whom must be the credited Director who exercised directorial control, and the other of whom must have a Producer or Director credit.
LIMITED SERIES: A limited series of episodes with a specific, continuing theme, topic or subject. (Sin City Law, The Supreme Court). Student projects are not eligible in this category. Award recipients - Limited to two persons. While co-production partners may be credited, only the Series Producer(s) will be presented with the award.
CONTINUING SERIES: An ongoing series. (American Masters, Nova, This American Life). While co-production partners may be credited, only the Executive Producer(s) of the continuing series will be presented with the award. Student projects are not eligible in this category. Award recipients - Limited to two persons.
IDA/DAVID L. WOLPER STUDENT DOCUMENTARY ACHIEVEMENT: A short or feature film/video, produced by registered, degree-seeking student(s). This award recognizes exceptional achievement in non-fiction film and video production at the university level and brings greater public and industry awareness to the work of students in the documentary field.
Special Recognition Awards
Not all five main categories of awards are eligible for every special recognition award listed below. See each one below for specific rules relating to which categories can be submitted for special recognition.
IDA/ABCNEWS VIDEOSOURCE AWARD for the best use of news footage as an integral component in a documentary. “News footage” is defined here as factual footage, contemporary or historical, shot for use in context such as newsreels, news specials, magazines or nightly news. “Integral component” is defined here as footage which is central to the structure, meaning and impact of the work. All main categories are eligible for this award.
IDA/PARE LORENTZ AWARD In keeping with the nature of Pare Lorentz's films—a successful candidate for the Pare Lorentz Award will demonstrate one or more of Lorentz's central concerns—the appropriate use of the natural environment, justice for all and the illumination of pressing social problems—presented as a compelling story by skillful film-making. A Pare Lorentz film will exhibit the highest production values: objective research, artistic writing, and outstanding music composition along with skillful direction, camerawork and editing. All main categories are eligible for this award.
IDA/HUMANITAS AWARD is given to a documentarian whose film strives to unify the human family by exploring the stories of human beings who are different in culture, race, lifestyle, political loyalties and religious beliefs in order to break down the wall of ignorance and fear that separates us. Only entries into the Distinguished Feature main category may apply for this award. Student projects are not eligible in this category.
IDA MUSIC DOCUMENTARY AWARD is given to a filmmaker for an outstanding documentary communicating the cultural importance of music and its power to enrich the human spirit. The entry must have all rights cleared. The award goes to ONE recipient: the credited individual who exercised creative control. Only stand-alone entries into the Distinguished Feature or Short main category may apply for this award. Student projects are not eligible in this category.
JUDGING is based on overall creative excellence. A committee of documentary filmmaking professionals screens all entries and selects all nominees. A Blue Ribbon panel picks the award winners.
To apply for the 2009 IDA Documentary Awards, please use the online submission process at Withoutabox.com.
Showing posts with label art as politic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label art as politic. Show all posts
June 05, 2009
April 08, 2009
IDA DocuWeeks™ CALL FOR ENTRIES
13th Annual DocuWeeks™ Theatrical Documentary Showcases
Los Angeles & New York City - August 2009
(Specific dates TBA, all screenings completed by August 20, 2009)
Enter Now! Earlybird Deadline: April 14, 2009
DocuWeeks™ helps to qualify outstanding new feature and short documentaries for Academy Award® consideration, by providing its participants with a seven-day commercial theatrical run in Los Angeles County and in the Borough of Manhattan. (Shorts will screen in the County of Los Angeles only, per Academy requirements.)
For complete information about Academy Awards® consideration, please see the 82nd Academy Awards Special Rules for Documentary Awards (Rule Twelve) for complete eligibility and application requirements. Read Rule Twelve here.
Each filmmaker is responsible for submitting the Academy Awards® application. IDA will provide the filmmaker with proof of advertisement, guide listings and theatrical runs for submission to the Academy prior to the Academy deadline.
To apply for IDA's DocuWeeks™ please use the online submission process at Withoutabox.com.
March 27, 2009
$25,000 FEATURE DOCUMENTARY FILM GRANT
FOCUS YOUR LENS ON ANIMAL PROTECTION ISSUES
SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 17, 2009!!!
CALL FOR ENTRIES!!!
Today's diverse forms of media can be powerful vehicles for increasing awareness of animal protection issues. The mission of The Humane Society of the United States' (The HSUS) Animal Content in Entertainment (ACE) program is to encourage content creators to view animal issues as rich source material for socially relevant documentary and entertainment media.The HSUS' ACE program offers various levels of support, from access to information, advisory experts, and film and video archives, to grant programs, promotional partnerships and large scale strategic alliances with the potential to reach an audience of millions.
As part of that support system, The HSUS has partnered with The Silverdocs/AFI/Discovery Channel Documentary Festival for four consecutive years to provide a grant for a feature documentary that highlights one or more animal protection issues. Last year that grant was increased to $25,000, and thanks to our partners at Silverdocs and Discovery, we received an overwhelming response. And with socially relevant content becoming more a part of our mainstream media diet, this year will be even better...
SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 17, 2009!!!
March 03, 2009
why straight women should march against prop 8
Proposition 8 has disastrous implications for women across California and for other groups that face discrimination.
Our state Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection will be immeasurably damaged if Prop 8 is allowed to stand. I support the lawsuit against Prop 8 because I believe the California Constitution, which is the highest and most basic expression of the people’s will, does not allow such drastic constitutional changes to be passed by a simple majority vote.
There was a time when women weren’t allowed to vote, weren’t allowed to own property and were excluded from educational opportunities. If these basic rights had been put to a majority vote, we might still be fighting for them.
Fundamental freedoms—for any group of people—should not be up for grabs in any election.
Our state Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection will be immeasurably damaged if Prop 8 is allowed to stand. I support the lawsuit against Prop 8 because I believe the California Constitution, which is the highest and most basic expression of the people’s will, does not allow such drastic constitutional changes to be passed by a simple majority vote.
There was a time when women weren’t allowed to vote, weren’t allowed to own property and were excluded from educational opportunities. If these basic rights had been put to a majority vote, we might still be fighting for them.
Fundamental freedoms—for any group of people—should not be up for grabs in any election.
February 13, 2009
CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS!
Love docs? Want to be part of the excitement of the 2009 Academy Awards®? Volunteer for one or both of these events hosted by the International Documentary Association. We have 2 opportunities - you can do both!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Annual IDA Nominees' Reception
(honoring Academy Award® Nominees in both the Short and Feature categories)
Wednesday Feb 18, 2009
5 pm – midnight
The Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater (on Wilshire in Beverly Hills)
Hosted by Lily Tomlin, the party begins with a catered reception followed by a program of clips and filmmaker comments and ends with desserts and coffee after the show! A fun, fun time. Volunteer and join the party!
Volunteers needed for the following positions: Ushers, Guest Check In, Media Check In, Publicity and Theater Greeters.
To work this event, please email: volunteer@documentary.org and in subject line write: Awards Reception – also indicate which position you prefer.
(Please note: All volunteers must be dressed in business or formal attire for this event. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Can’t make it to the Awards Ceremony? Volunteer for DocuDay instead and get to see some of the nominated films!
DocuDay LA
Saturday Feb 21st, 2009
8:30am-midnight
The WGA Theatre (on Doheny in Beverly Hills)
An all-day and night screening marathon of the nominated documentaries with Q&A's between each screening.
Volunteers are needed for the following positions: Ushers, Theater Greeters, Box Office, Café and Volunteer Check In.
Shifts are available from:
Shift One: 8 am to 12:30 pm
Shift Two: Noon to 4:30 pm
Shift Three: 4 pm to 9 pm
Shift Four: 8 pm to 12:30 am
Please email: volunteer@documentary.org and in subject line write: DocuDay – then indicate which position you prefer and which shift(s) you are able to do.
The dress code is casual. Volunteers are welcome to watch films before or after their shifts.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Annual IDA Nominees' Reception
(honoring Academy Award® Nominees in both the Short and Feature categories)
Wednesday Feb 18, 2009
5 pm – midnight
The Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater (on Wilshire in Beverly Hills)
Hosted by Lily Tomlin, the party begins with a catered reception followed by a program of clips and filmmaker comments and ends with desserts and coffee after the show! A fun, fun time. Volunteer and join the party!
Volunteers needed for the following positions: Ushers, Guest Check In, Media Check In, Publicity and Theater Greeters.
To work this event, please email: volunteer@documentary.org and in subject line write: Awards Reception – also indicate which position you prefer.
(Please note: All volunteers must be dressed in business or formal attire for this event. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Can’t make it to the Awards Ceremony? Volunteer for DocuDay instead and get to see some of the nominated films!
DocuDay LA
Saturday Feb 21st, 2009
8:30am-midnight
The WGA Theatre (on Doheny in Beverly Hills)
An all-day and night screening marathon of the nominated documentaries with Q&A's between each screening.
Volunteers are needed for the following positions: Ushers, Theater Greeters, Box Office, Café and Volunteer Check In.
Shifts are available from:
Shift One: 8 am to 12:30 pm
Shift Two: Noon to 4:30 pm
Shift Three: 4 pm to 9 pm
Shift Four: 8 pm to 12:30 am
Please email: volunteer@documentary.org and in subject line write: DocuDay – then indicate which position you prefer and which shift(s) you are able to do.
The dress code is casual. Volunteers are welcome to watch films before or after their shifts.
February 10, 2009
February 09, 2009
artists respond to Senator McCain
Joseph Hayes writes:
This was my response to Senator McCain -
Senator McCain,
You asked, "Tell me how [the arts] creates any significant number of jobs?"
I am one, independent playwright. I get no funding from corporations, I am affiliated with no large theater. What funding I've ever received has come from state arts foundations. Since 2002, I have had 18 productions and readings of my plays.
As a writer in midcareer, I have yet to hit any large theaters with my work, the plays being done in small, regional theaters across the country. But since 2002, I calculate that my writing has created 107 roles for actors, 30+ musicians, a couple of hundred sound, light and stagecraft people. My plays have sold more than 2,000 tickets
(remember, these are very small venues), not to
mention the benefit the theaters and local
businesses have garnered from the audiences apart from ticket sales, in the babysitter economy, the restaurant economy, the parking garage economy.
That's the jobs I have personally generated. If there was national funding available for me, larger productions would follow. If national funding for the arts was available to the people I connect with in my art, they could in turn generate more jobs for other people.
The arts is a vital job, and more importantly, career generator.
This was my response to Senator McCain -
Senator McCain,
You asked, "Tell me how [the arts] creates any significant number of jobs?"
I am one, independent playwright. I get no funding from corporations, I am affiliated with no large theater. What funding I've ever received has come from state arts foundations. Since 2002, I have had 18 productions and readings of my plays.
As a writer in midcareer, I have yet to hit any large theaters with my work, the plays being done in small, regional theaters across the country. But since 2002, I calculate that my writing has created 107 roles for actors, 30+ musicians, a couple of hundred sound, light and stagecraft people. My plays have sold more than 2,000 tickets
(remember, these are very small venues), not to
mention the benefit the theaters and local
businesses have garnered from the audiences apart from ticket sales, in the babysitter economy, the restaurant economy, the parking garage economy.
That's the jobs I have personally generated. If there was national funding available for me, larger productions would follow. If national funding for the arts was available to the people I connect with in my art, they could in turn generate more jobs for other people.
The arts is a vital job, and more importantly, career generator.
February 08, 2009
Please write your own letter to John McCain
Today, John McCain said: “$50 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Arts — all of us are for the arts,” McCain said. “Tell me how that creates any significant number of jobs?"
Please tell him about your job:
http://mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.ContactForm
Dear Senator McCain --
I understand you are not aware of how funding for the arts creates jobs. So, I'd like to tell you what I do for a living. I am a...
Thank you so much for asking what I do.
Sincerely,
xxxx
And join the Dear John site on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=13405&post=144982&uid=53261576045#/group.php?gid=53261576045
Please tell him about your job:
http://mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.ContactForm
Dear Senator McCain --
I understand you are not aware of how funding for the arts creates jobs. So, I'd like to tell you what I do for a living. I am a...
Thank you so much for asking what I do.
Sincerely,
xxxx
And join the Dear John site on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=13405&post=144982&uid=53261576045#/group.php?gid=53261576045
My letter to John McCain
Dear Mr. McCain --
It has recently come to my attention that you said: “$50 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Arts — all of us are for the arts,” McCain said. “Tell me how that creates any significant number of jobs?"
I understand you are not aware of how funding for the arts creates jobs. So, I'd like to tell you what I do for a living. I am a playwright and I have, in the past, received funding from the NEA for projects I created by, about and for my home state of West Virginia.
To give you an idea of how even a small four-person play can create jobs, I’d like to explain how my most recent production here in Los Angeles rippled through this community.
Directly involved in the production were a set designer and her builders, lighting, costume and sound designers, a props master, a stage manager, a director, actors, understudies, photographers, videographers, a publicist, producers etc. All told twenty-three people were directly employed by this play that had a six-week run.
Rippling out, just for our opening night alone, we also employed a valet service, a caterer and waitstaff, additional photographers and videographers not to mention the numerous news outlets who sent their employees to cover the event generating work for journalists, reviewers and paparazzi.
Rippling further out, our audience members often had dinners and drinks before or after each performance bringing business to the restaurants and bars that surrounded the theatre. Considering the poor state of our economy, it was business desperately needed and welcomed by these locally-owned establishments.
We were one show running for six weeks and yet our presence directly and indirectly affected hundreds of people. Now multiply that by the hundreds of stages that are lit every night of the week just in Los Angeles alone. Now multiply that by all the stages across the country.
On each of those stages, in the wings of those theatres, in the seats, people have gathered, people are employed, people are moved because one writer, sitting alone in a room, received a letter from the NEA, received a check from the NEA that allowed them one more month of rent, one more chance to put the words on the page, one more chance to create something beautiful, something that may live beyond us all to bridge the gap between present and future, between cultures, between art and commerce.
Thank you so much for asking what I do. I certainly hope you will do everything in your power to keep the arts very much alive in America.
Sincerely,
Susan Johnston
It has recently come to my attention that you said: “$50 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Arts — all of us are for the arts,” McCain said. “Tell me how that creates any significant number of jobs?"
I understand you are not aware of how funding for the arts creates jobs. So, I'd like to tell you what I do for a living. I am a playwright and I have, in the past, received funding from the NEA for projects I created by, about and for my home state of West Virginia.
To give you an idea of how even a small four-person play can create jobs, I’d like to explain how my most recent production here in Los Angeles rippled through this community.
Directly involved in the production were a set designer and her builders, lighting, costume and sound designers, a props master, a stage manager, a director, actors, understudies, photographers, videographers, a publicist, producers etc. All told twenty-three people were directly employed by this play that had a six-week run.
Rippling out, just for our opening night alone, we also employed a valet service, a caterer and waitstaff, additional photographers and videographers not to mention the numerous news outlets who sent their employees to cover the event generating work for journalists, reviewers and paparazzi.
Rippling further out, our audience members often had dinners and drinks before or after each performance bringing business to the restaurants and bars that surrounded the theatre. Considering the poor state of our economy, it was business desperately needed and welcomed by these locally-owned establishments.
We were one show running for six weeks and yet our presence directly and indirectly affected hundreds of people. Now multiply that by the hundreds of stages that are lit every night of the week just in Los Angeles alone. Now multiply that by all the stages across the country.
On each of those stages, in the wings of those theatres, in the seats, people have gathered, people are employed, people are moved because one writer, sitting alone in a room, received a letter from the NEA, received a check from the NEA that allowed them one more month of rent, one more chance to put the words on the page, one more chance to create something beautiful, something that may live beyond us all to bridge the gap between present and future, between cultures, between art and commerce.
Thank you so much for asking what I do. I certainly hope you will do everything in your power to keep the arts very much alive in America.
Sincerely,
Susan Johnston
February 06, 2009
grants, grants and more grants
Joyce Foundation Issues Call to Entry for 2010 Joyce Awards
Deadline: April 6, 2009 (Letter of Inquiry)
The Joyce Awards support commissions given by Midwest cultural institutions to artists of color. Four grants of $50,000 each will be awarded for commissions of works in Dance, Music, Theater, and Visual Arts.
The annual awards target cultural organizations in Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and St. Paul/Minneapolis. The dance award supports the commission and performance of a new choreographed work in any dance genre. The music award supports
the commission and performance of a new, fully developed composition in any musical genre. The theater award supports the commission and performance of a new play. The visual arts award supports the commission and exhibition of new works of painting, sculpture, photography, textiles, mixed or new media, or installation/conceptual art. Where appropriate, collaborations among organizations across the target cities and joint programming are encouraged. Projects should include significant efforts by the institution and the artist to engage its community and attract new audiences.
Eligible cultural organizations must have a primary mission to present art through public programs in Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, or Saint Paul/Minneapolis. Groups must be well established, demonstrate strong organizational capacity, and have a track record of presenting programs of the highest artistic caliber. Additionally, organizations must demonstrate a commitment to serving diverse audiences in their current programming, community-based education, outreach, and other activities. The proposed work should not be developed beyond the conceptual stage at the time of application and not be completed before
January 2010.
For complete information on applying for the 2010 Joyce Awards, visit the Joyce Foundation Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016771/joycefdn
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
Knight Foundation Arts Challenge Seeks Innovative Ideas for South Florida
Deadline: March 2, 2009
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation (http://www.knightfoundation.org/ ) has launched the second round of the Knight Arts Challenge ( http://www.knightarts.org/) a community-wide contest to fund the best art ideas in South Florida.
The challenge, part of a five-year, $40 million initiative, is designed to help transform South Florida by bringing community together through the arts. In 2009, the challenge will award a
total of almost $4 million.
Last year, the program awarded $8 million in grants to thirty-one groups for a variety of projects, including the University of Miami's two-year residency for up-and-coming artists in the Design District, a Haitian jazz series, and a network of children's choirs serving disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Entrants must propose ideas that are about the arts and that take place in or benefit South Florida. Applicants must find funding to match the Knight Foundation grant. Individuals,
organizations, and businesses are eligible to apply. The contest is open to applicants of all nationalities. The program's simple, two-question application is designed to attract appli-
cants who are not traditional grantseekers. Winners will be notified in June and will have until November to raise matching funds for their projects.
For complete program information and application, visit the Knight Arts Challenge Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016772/knightarts
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
Nominations Invited for Best Companies Supporting the Arts in America
Deadline: March 9, 2009.
The Business Committee for the Arts, Inc. ( http://www.bcainc.org/), a national not-for-profit organization working to bring business and the arts together, is accepting nominations for the BCA Ten: Best Companies Supporting the Arts in America. Announced annually, the BCA Ten is a national list created to recognize businesses of all sizes for their exceptional efforts to use the arts to enrich the workplace, education, and the community.
Any individual, arts organization, or company employee may nominate a company for the award. Companies, both large and small, that support the arts in the United States are eligible for nom-
ination. Tax-exempt not-for-profit organizations and companies in the BCA Hall of Fame are not eligible, nor are companies named to the BCA Ten in 2005, 2006, 2007, or 2008.
Nomination statements should address how the company supports the arts through leadership, long-term commitment, impact, addressing community needs, employee and customer involvement, and by encouraging other companies to support the arts.
Award information and nomination forms are available at the BCA Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016773/bcainc
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
San Francisco Film Society Announces New Filmmaking Grants Program
Deadline: February 23, 2009 (Letter of Intent)
As part of its new filmmaker services programs, the San Francisco Film Society ( http://www.sffs.org/), with support from the Kenneth Rainin Foundation ( http://krfoundation.org/), has announced the new San Francisco Film Society/Kenneth Rainin
Foundation Filmmaking Grants. Over the next five years, the program will disburse a series of annual grants totaling $3 million for narrative feature films being made in the San Francisco Bay
Area.
The SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants will support films that use plot, character, theme, or setting to significantly explore human and civil rights, anti-discrimination efforts, gender and sexual identity, and other urgent social justice issues of our time.
The grants will be awarded in the spring and fall of each year. In 2009, the program will award two grants of $35,000 each. The 2009 grants support screenwriting and script development, pre-production, and post-production expenses. In addition to the grant, recipients will receive a range of benefits through the film society's filmmaker services programs.
Applicants must be in a key creative role for their film (screen-writer, producer, or director), must be an SFFS member at the Filmmaker Pro level or above, must be at least 18 years old, and must have a strong connection to the San Francisco Bay Area. Applicants may not be full-time students.
Visit the SFFS Web site for complete program guidelines and eligibility details.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016774/sffilmmaker
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
Children Invited to Submit Designs for U.S. Fund for UNICEF Greeting Card Contest
Deadline: March 6, 2009
The U.S. Fund for UNICEF ( http://www.unicefusa.org/) has announced a call for entries for its annual Pier 1 (http://www.pier1.com/ ) greeting card contest, in which a child's winning design is turned into an official UNICEF greeting card to be sold at Pier 1 Imports stores across the
United States during the 2009 holiday season. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of the card, as well as all UNICEF cards sold at Pier 1, go to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF to
help in its mission to reduce the number of preventable childhood deaths from 25,000 each day to zero.
The contest is open to children age 14 and under. All entries must be hand-drawn. The children's artwork will be judged on artistic quality and creative interpretation of this year's theme, "Joy to the World."
In addition to having their design turned into a greeting card, the winner will receive a $5,000 scholarship, along with $500 worth of art supplies for his or her school. Visitors to the Pier 1 Web site will also be invited to vote on their favorite design from April 1 to 15, 2009. The "People's Choice" winner will receive $500 worth of art supplies.
Further information is available at the U.S. Fund for UNICEF Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016775/unicefusa
For additional RFPs in Children and Youth, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_children.jhtml
Deadline: April 6, 2009 (Letter of Inquiry)
The Joyce Awards support commissions given by Midwest cultural institutions to artists of color. Four grants of $50,000 each will be awarded for commissions of works in Dance, Music, Theater, and Visual Arts.
The annual awards target cultural organizations in Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and St. Paul/Minneapolis. The dance award supports the commission and performance of a new choreographed work in any dance genre. The music award supports
the commission and performance of a new, fully developed composition in any musical genre. The theater award supports the commission and performance of a new play. The visual arts award supports the commission and exhibition of new works of painting, sculpture, photography, textiles, mixed or new media, or installation/conceptual art. Where appropriate, collaborations among organizations across the target cities and joint programming are encouraged. Projects should include significant efforts by the institution and the artist to engage its community and attract new audiences.
Eligible cultural organizations must have a primary mission to present art through public programs in Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, or Saint Paul/Minneapolis. Groups must be well established, demonstrate strong organizational capacity, and have a track record of presenting programs of the highest artistic caliber. Additionally, organizations must demonstrate a commitment to serving diverse audiences in their current programming, community-based education, outreach, and other activities. The proposed work should not be developed beyond the conceptual stage at the time of application and not be completed before
January 2010.
For complete information on applying for the 2010 Joyce Awards, visit the Joyce Foundation Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016771/joycefdn
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
Knight Foundation Arts Challenge Seeks Innovative Ideas for South Florida
Deadline: March 2, 2009
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation (http://www.knightfoundation.org/ ) has launched the second round of the Knight Arts Challenge ( http://www.knightarts.org/) a community-wide contest to fund the best art ideas in South Florida.
The challenge, part of a five-year, $40 million initiative, is designed to help transform South Florida by bringing community together through the arts. In 2009, the challenge will award a
total of almost $4 million.
Last year, the program awarded $8 million in grants to thirty-one groups for a variety of projects, including the University of Miami's two-year residency for up-and-coming artists in the Design District, a Haitian jazz series, and a network of children's choirs serving disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Entrants must propose ideas that are about the arts and that take place in or benefit South Florida. Applicants must find funding to match the Knight Foundation grant. Individuals,
organizations, and businesses are eligible to apply. The contest is open to applicants of all nationalities. The program's simple, two-question application is designed to attract appli-
cants who are not traditional grantseekers. Winners will be notified in June and will have until November to raise matching funds for their projects.
For complete program information and application, visit the Knight Arts Challenge Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016772/knightarts
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
Nominations Invited for Best Companies Supporting the Arts in America
Deadline: March 9, 2009.
The Business Committee for the Arts, Inc. ( http://www.bcainc.org/), a national not-for-profit organization working to bring business and the arts together, is accepting nominations for the BCA Ten: Best Companies Supporting the Arts in America. Announced annually, the BCA Ten is a national list created to recognize businesses of all sizes for their exceptional efforts to use the arts to enrich the workplace, education, and the community.
Any individual, arts organization, or company employee may nominate a company for the award. Companies, both large and small, that support the arts in the United States are eligible for nom-
ination. Tax-exempt not-for-profit organizations and companies in the BCA Hall of Fame are not eligible, nor are companies named to the BCA Ten in 2005, 2006, 2007, or 2008.
Nomination statements should address how the company supports the arts through leadership, long-term commitment, impact, addressing community needs, employee and customer involvement, and by encouraging other companies to support the arts.
Award information and nomination forms are available at the BCA Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016773/bcainc
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
San Francisco Film Society Announces New Filmmaking Grants Program
Deadline: February 23, 2009 (Letter of Intent)
As part of its new filmmaker services programs, the San Francisco Film Society ( http://www.sffs.org/), with support from the Kenneth Rainin Foundation ( http://krfoundation.org/), has announced the new San Francisco Film Society/Kenneth Rainin
Foundation Filmmaking Grants. Over the next five years, the program will disburse a series of annual grants totaling $3 million for narrative feature films being made in the San Francisco Bay
Area.
The SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants will support films that use plot, character, theme, or setting to significantly explore human and civil rights, anti-discrimination efforts, gender and sexual identity, and other urgent social justice issues of our time.
The grants will be awarded in the spring and fall of each year. In 2009, the program will award two grants of $35,000 each. The 2009 grants support screenwriting and script development, pre-production, and post-production expenses. In addition to the grant, recipients will receive a range of benefits through the film society's filmmaker services programs.
Applicants must be in a key creative role for their film (screen-writer, producer, or director), must be an SFFS member at the Filmmaker Pro level or above, must be at least 18 years old, and must have a strong connection to the San Francisco Bay Area. Applicants may not be full-time students.
Visit the SFFS Web site for complete program guidelines and eligibility details.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016774/sffilmmaker
For additional RFPs in Arts and Culture, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_arts.jhtml
--------------------------<<>>-----------------------------
Children Invited to Submit Designs for U.S. Fund for UNICEF Greeting Card Contest
Deadline: March 6, 2009
The U.S. Fund for UNICEF ( http://www.unicefusa.org/) has announced a call for entries for its annual Pier 1 (http://www.pier1.com/ ) greeting card contest, in which a child's winning design is turned into an official UNICEF greeting card to be sold at Pier 1 Imports stores across the
United States during the 2009 holiday season. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of the card, as well as all UNICEF cards sold at Pier 1, go to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF to
help in its mission to reduce the number of preventable childhood deaths from 25,000 each day to zero.
The contest is open to children age 14 and under. All entries must be hand-drawn. The children's artwork will be judged on artistic quality and creative interpretation of this year's theme, "Joy to the World."
In addition to having their design turned into a greeting card, the winner will receive a $5,000 scholarship, along with $500 worth of art supplies for his or her school. Visitors to the Pier 1 Web site will also be invited to vote on their favorite design from April 1 to 15, 2009. The "People's Choice" winner will receive $500 worth of art supplies.
Further information is available at the U.S. Fund for UNICEF Web site.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016775/unicefusa
For additional RFPs in Children and Youth, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_children.jhtml
December 06, 2008
grants for arts org serving kids
Coming Up Taller Awards Program Invites Nominations of Arts Programs for Underserved Children and Youth
Deadline: January 30, 2009
The President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (http://www.pcah.gov/) invites nominations for the 2009 Coming Up Taller Awards ( http://www.cominguptaller.org/).
In partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services ( http://www.imls.gov/), the National Endowment for the Arts ( http://www.arts.gov/), and the National Endowment for the
Humanities ( http://www.neh.gov/), PCAH is embarking on the twelfth year of the awards, which recognize the accomplishments of exceptional arts and humanities afterschool and out-of-school programs. Programs initiated by museums, libraries, performing arts organizations, universities, colleges, arts centers, community service organizations, schools, businesses, and eligible government entities are encouraged to participate.
To be eligible, nominated programs must operate as a program for children and youth outside the school day. However, preschool, afterschool, weekend, and/or summer programs may have a school based component or use school space. Programs must concentrate on children and youth who live in family and community circumstances that limit their opportunities, and must involve those children and youth as active participants in the arts or humanities experience. (Cultural programs in which children function only as an audience are not eligible.) Programs must provide participants with regularly scheduled sessions on an ongoing basis; one-time or occasional programs will not be considered. Programs must have been operational since January 2005 and must be administered by a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, unit of state or local government, or federally recognized tribal community or tribe.
Coming Up Taller finalists each receive $10,000, an individualized plaque, and an invitation to attend the Coming Up Taller Leadership Enhancement Conference.
Visit the Coming Up Taller Web site for complete program guidelines.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016065/cominguptaller
For additional RFPs in Children and Youth, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_children.jhtml
Deadline: January 30, 2009
The President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (http://www.pcah.gov/) invites nominations for the 2009 Coming Up Taller Awards ( http://www.cominguptaller.org/).
In partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services ( http://www.imls.gov/), the National Endowment for the Arts ( http://www.arts.gov/), and the National Endowment for the
Humanities ( http://www.neh.gov/), PCAH is embarking on the twelfth year of the awards, which recognize the accomplishments of exceptional arts and humanities afterschool and out-of-school programs. Programs initiated by museums, libraries, performing arts organizations, universities, colleges, arts centers, community service organizations, schools, businesses, and eligible government entities are encouraged to participate.
To be eligible, nominated programs must operate as a program for children and youth outside the school day. However, preschool, afterschool, weekend, and/or summer programs may have a school based component or use school space. Programs must concentrate on children and youth who live in family and community circumstances that limit their opportunities, and must involve those children and youth as active participants in the arts or humanities experience. (Cultural programs in which children function only as an audience are not eligible.) Programs must provide participants with regularly scheduled sessions on an ongoing basis; one-time or occasional programs will not be considered. Programs must have been operational since January 2005 and must be administered by a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, unit of state or local government, or federally recognized tribal community or tribe.
Coming Up Taller finalists each receive $10,000, an individualized plaque, and an invitation to attend the Coming Up Taller Leadership Enhancement Conference.
Visit the Coming Up Taller Web site for complete program guidelines.
RFP Link:
http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15016065/cominguptaller
For additional RFPs in Children and Youth, visit:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_children.jhtml
November 12, 2008
October 21, 2008
Rehabilitation through the Arts
Rehabilitation Through the Arts ("RTA") Presents:
RTA on the River Fundraiser
October 29, 2008
Sunset Terrace, Chelsea Piers (Pier 61), W. 23rd Street at the Hudson River
Reception: 7 pm - 10 pm
Program: 8 pm
Tickets: $50 (Individual) $100 (Corporate)
Tickets available at http://www.rtaontheriver.org
RTA serves an important function in the New York State Prison system. The organization uses theater arts to give prisoners an outlet to express themselves through creative workshops and classes. The workshops produce original plays, monologues and performances that are performed for theentire prison population and invited guests. "Graduates" of the RTA program often continue their involvement in the arts after their release from prison. RTA graduates have gone on to teach drama to at-risk youths and returned to prisons as RTA volunteers. Several former inmates will attend the benefit to perform music and give presentations on the program.
You can read more about the RTA at: http://www.p-c-i.org/rta.php.RTA is a program of Prison Communities International Inc., which is a privately funded 301(c)(3) non-profit organization. Attached are an invitation to the event and a NYT article about the RTA.
Please contact Raji Mangat at raji.mangat@gmail.com or at (917) 597-1960 for more information about the event or the RTA. Thank you.
RTA on the River Fundraiser
October 29, 2008
Sunset Terrace, Chelsea Piers (Pier 61), W. 23rd Street at the Hudson River
Reception: 7 pm - 10 pm
Program: 8 pm
Tickets: $50 (Individual) $100 (Corporate)
Tickets available at http://www.rtaontheriver.org
RTA serves an important function in the New York State Prison system. The organization uses theater arts to give prisoners an outlet to express themselves through creative workshops and classes. The workshops produce original plays, monologues and performances that are performed for theentire prison population and invited guests. "Graduates" of the RTA program often continue their involvement in the arts after their release from prison. RTA graduates have gone on to teach drama to at-risk youths and returned to prisons as RTA volunteers. Several former inmates will attend the benefit to perform music and give presentations on the program.
You can read more about the RTA at: http://www.p-c-i.org/rta.php.RTA is a program of Prison Communities International Inc., which is a privately funded 301(c)(3) non-profit organization. Attached are an invitation to the event and a NYT article about the RTA.
Please contact Raji Mangat at raji.mangat@gmail.com or at (917) 597-1960 for more information about the event or the RTA. Thank you.
September 25, 2008
September 24, 2008
catching up with spearhead
Big shout out of Love to Franti and the Spearhead boys as they head off into the world to spread the message. We loved having you here in LA!!!! And congrats on breaking into the Top 40!!!!
Raleigh Ral - so proud of you!!!
Raleigh Ral - so proud of you!!!
September 14, 2008
July 09, 2008
a passionate cause in Laos
Leilani Chan writes:
Dear Friends,
As you many of you know Ova and I have been working passionately with Legacies of War to raise awareness about the UXO's (unexploded cluster bombs) in Laos and advocate for their removal. We are excited to be joining Legacies in August on a learning trip that will take us to view the areas still affected by UXO's where 1 in 6 are amputees as a result of touching or being near an accidentally detonated cluster bomb.
I am writing to ask for your support of an exciting campaign that Legacies of War has undertaken. The Schools Not Bombs Campaign aims to build preschools for children in impoverished Laotian villages which have been affected by unexploded cluster bombs. Our goal is to raise enough funds to cover the cost of building a preschool in one of the affected areas before we arrive in Laos.
To make a donation in support of Ova and I please go to https://secure.groundspring.org/dn/index.php?aid=17379 and select "Legacies Preschool in Laos" when making your donation. We would like to make a total donation to Schools Not Bombs of $1000. Please help us make this goal by donating today. For more information please read more below. Thank you all so much for our continued support of our work.
Me ke aloha,
Leilani & Ova
***A new generation of Laotians continues to suffer from the enduring legacies of cluster bombs leftover from three decades ago, when Laos became the most bombed country in the world. Preschools will replace bombs on land that have been cleared, providing a safe environment for children and educational opportunities to overcome the barriers of poverty. Through this campaign, we seek to transform a tragic past into a hopeful future for the people of Laos.
For more information about Schools Not Bombs Campaign, visit http://www.legaciesofwar.org/news-room/news-releases/333.
We are working with Give Children a Choice(www.givechildrenachoice.org), a nonprofit organization that has built 18 preschools in Luang Prabang, Laos to help us identify the village for our first school. Our inaugural school will be in Xieng Khoang Province, one of the most heavily bombed areas and the origins of the historic illustrations featured in the Legacies of War National Traveling Exhibition www.legaciesofwar.org.
The school will be in Lathsene Village, home to 500 people and 80 families, with preschoolers who are descendents of bombing survivors.We have already raised $12,500 of the $17,000 needed to build a preschool in time for the new school year this fall. Please help us to meet our fundraising goal of $4,500 in the next month to build the school. Nearly 100 people have given – from $1 to $7,500. Every dollar raised is one step closer to helping Laotian children have a safe environment to learn and grow. Send a check or Donate on-lineEvery dollar raised goes towards the school. Your name will be listedas a generous donor on our website and in the school.--
Leilani Chan
Artistic Director
TeAda Productions
www.teada.org
Dear Friends,
As you many of you know Ova and I have been working passionately with Legacies of War to raise awareness about the UXO's (unexploded cluster bombs) in Laos and advocate for their removal. We are excited to be joining Legacies in August on a learning trip that will take us to view the areas still affected by UXO's where 1 in 6 are amputees as a result of touching or being near an accidentally detonated cluster bomb.
I am writing to ask for your support of an exciting campaign that Legacies of War has undertaken. The Schools Not Bombs Campaign aims to build preschools for children in impoverished Laotian villages which have been affected by unexploded cluster bombs. Our goal is to raise enough funds to cover the cost of building a preschool in one of the affected areas before we arrive in Laos.
To make a donation in support of Ova and I please go to https://secure.groundspring.org/dn/index.php?aid=17379 and select "Legacies Preschool in Laos" when making your donation. We would like to make a total donation to Schools Not Bombs of $1000. Please help us make this goal by donating today. For more information please read more below. Thank you all so much for our continued support of our work.
Me ke aloha,
Leilani & Ova
***A new generation of Laotians continues to suffer from the enduring legacies of cluster bombs leftover from three decades ago, when Laos became the most bombed country in the world. Preschools will replace bombs on land that have been cleared, providing a safe environment for children and educational opportunities to overcome the barriers of poverty. Through this campaign, we seek to transform a tragic past into a hopeful future for the people of Laos.
For more information about Schools Not Bombs Campaign, visit http://www.legaciesofwar.org/news-room/news-releases/333.
We are working with Give Children a Choice(www.givechildrenachoice.org), a nonprofit organization that has built 18 preschools in Luang Prabang, Laos to help us identify the village for our first school. Our inaugural school will be in Xieng Khoang Province, one of the most heavily bombed areas and the origins of the historic illustrations featured in the Legacies of War National Traveling Exhibition www.legaciesofwar.org.
The school will be in Lathsene Village, home to 500 people and 80 families, with preschoolers who are descendents of bombing survivors.We have already raised $12,500 of the $17,000 needed to build a preschool in time for the new school year this fall. Please help us to meet our fundraising goal of $4,500 in the next month to build the school. Nearly 100 people have given – from $1 to $7,500. Every dollar raised is one step closer to helping Laotian children have a safe environment to learn and grow. Send a check or Donate on-lineEvery dollar raised goes towards the school. Your name will be listedas a generous donor on our website and in the school.--
Leilani Chan
Artistic Director
TeAda Productions
www.teada.org
April 24, 2008
advance press for party favors
Politics at a Price
by CHRISTOPHER HAYES & TE-PING CHEN
[posted online on April 1, 2008]
Nicole Sexton was a wide-eyed intern in the White House Office of National Service when she first caught Potomac fever: an addiction to DC politics, and the belief that government could make any number of "grandiose ideas" real. She made the transition into the secretive and highly lucrative world of DC fundraising, where she spent fifteen years rising to become one of the Republicans' top fundraisers.
But gradually, she grew disillusioned with the entire system. And today, after helping the Republicans regain their majority in the Senate as the 2002-2005 Director of Finance for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Sexton has done what few fundraisers in the field are willing to do: leave. Today, she works for the ONE campaign, helping to raise awareness about AIDS and the crisis of extreme poverty around the world.
Author of the forthcoming Party Favors--a fictionalized account of her experience as one of the GOP's most well-connected insiders--Nicole Sexton sat down with The Nation to share her perspective on the rarely talked-about world of political fundraising, the stakes involved, and the difficulty of defining your priorities when your politics are for sale.
So tell me, if I'm running for a seat in the House and I hire you. What's the process? What do you tell me?
First, we'll look at your personal Rolodex. We'll put a finance crew together of people who believe in you--it might be someone who owns a grocery store, or someone who's president of a bank. It's grassroots, and you'll build your donor list from them. You'll also receive support from the NRCC (National Republican Congressional Committee) and state parties, and they'll provide resources or outlets for you to raise money through.
But what if I wanted to run for Congress? I mean, I don't really know any bank presidents. I probably wouldn't get very far.
Everybody has somebody that they know who has a Rolodex. Or you know someone who's a stockbroker or banker, or in some sort of corporate capacity is connected to people...Most of the people I ended up working for--well, a few came from the House, but the majority had come from a governor's position or had been in the private sector, so it wasn't an overwhelming challenge for them.
When you're working for a candidate, what kind of dynamic exists between you and your client? What's that relationship like?
As the fundraiser, you probably have the most intimate relationship with the candidate of anyone on staff. You get to know his friends, his network. Sometimes it's tough. Some people that I've worked with really love raising money and it's not been an arm-twist at all, but others can't stand it.
What's the norm?
Can't stand it. It's a chore. Most of the time for senators, the calls are preset so the donor knows you're calling, and you know that you'll get the contribution. But still, they'll want to fill your ear with how they feel about the war, or a piece of legislation, or pending legislation. After all, you know, they're paying for time. I wouldn't go so far as to say it's dollars for legislation--but you're certainly getting someone's ear. That's part of the deal.
Talk to me a little about what donor psychology is like. It seems to me there's a number of reasons you might give money--you have an ideological affinity, or you share a personal or social connection-- A personal or social connection, or because it's good business. And if we're talking about big check writers, more often than not, it's just good business. A lot of big campaign contributors write checks across the aisle for that reason.
So what makes someone a good fundraiser?
A good Rolodex. A comfort level with asking for money. And then--if you're a good fundraiser, and you're smart, you know who to target. So if you're fundraising for a Senator who's on the Oil and Gas Committee, you'll give them 25 call sheets with calls to make to people in that industry. Senators raise a lot of money, and the fundraiser will get a percentage of all that.
Is there an industry standard?
Ten percent. Or these days, a lot of people are charging 15%. Or some people get a retainer, usually $5000 a month, and they'll get a percentage of only major gifts. Or if you're a fundraiser who isn't just doing major donations but is managing the direct mail or the Internet [fundraising] portion, you'll get a percentage off of that. Everything is done on percentages.
What's a Senate campaign in Missouri cost? $15 million? $20 million?
I'd say, $12-15 million.
So you can walk away with $1.5 million.
It's not unheard of. People make a lot of money. And that has the whole industry messed up.
Because too much money is going through the campaign back into the pockets of consultants?
Too much goes into the checked box of overhead. Right now we have finance and media consultants buying second houses on their consulting fees--and that's money from the guy that gives $50 and works at T.J.Maxx. As I moved further along in my career, I saw more and more money and more misappropriation of funds and disregard for donors. In today's political world, unless you can afford $2000 and can stand in a reception where the candidate's going to show up, the likelihood of you ever being able to shake hands with a candidate or ask them a question is slim-to-none. For me it was a real eye-opener--seeing the complete disconnect between the individual and the elected official. It's not every politician, but it was enough that I didn't want to be a part of it anymore.
by CHRISTOPHER HAYES & TE-PING CHEN
[posted online on April 1, 2008]
Nicole Sexton was a wide-eyed intern in the White House Office of National Service when she first caught Potomac fever: an addiction to DC politics, and the belief that government could make any number of "grandiose ideas" real. She made the transition into the secretive and highly lucrative world of DC fundraising, where she spent fifteen years rising to become one of the Republicans' top fundraisers.
But gradually, she grew disillusioned with the entire system. And today, after helping the Republicans regain their majority in the Senate as the 2002-2005 Director of Finance for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Sexton has done what few fundraisers in the field are willing to do: leave. Today, she works for the ONE campaign, helping to raise awareness about AIDS and the crisis of extreme poverty around the world.
Author of the forthcoming Party Favors--a fictionalized account of her experience as one of the GOP's most well-connected insiders--Nicole Sexton sat down with The Nation to share her perspective on the rarely talked-about world of political fundraising, the stakes involved, and the difficulty of defining your priorities when your politics are for sale.
So tell me, if I'm running for a seat in the House and I hire you. What's the process? What do you tell me?
First, we'll look at your personal Rolodex. We'll put a finance crew together of people who believe in you--it might be someone who owns a grocery store, or someone who's president of a bank. It's grassroots, and you'll build your donor list from them. You'll also receive support from the NRCC (National Republican Congressional Committee) and state parties, and they'll provide resources or outlets for you to raise money through.
But what if I wanted to run for Congress? I mean, I don't really know any bank presidents. I probably wouldn't get very far.
Everybody has somebody that they know who has a Rolodex. Or you know someone who's a stockbroker or banker, or in some sort of corporate capacity is connected to people...Most of the people I ended up working for--well, a few came from the House, but the majority had come from a governor's position or had been in the private sector, so it wasn't an overwhelming challenge for them.
When you're working for a candidate, what kind of dynamic exists between you and your client? What's that relationship like?
As the fundraiser, you probably have the most intimate relationship with the candidate of anyone on staff. You get to know his friends, his network. Sometimes it's tough. Some people that I've worked with really love raising money and it's not been an arm-twist at all, but others can't stand it.
What's the norm?
Can't stand it. It's a chore. Most of the time for senators, the calls are preset so the donor knows you're calling, and you know that you'll get the contribution. But still, they'll want to fill your ear with how they feel about the war, or a piece of legislation, or pending legislation. After all, you know, they're paying for time. I wouldn't go so far as to say it's dollars for legislation--but you're certainly getting someone's ear. That's part of the deal.
Talk to me a little about what donor psychology is like. It seems to me there's a number of reasons you might give money--you have an ideological affinity, or you share a personal or social connection-- A personal or social connection, or because it's good business. And if we're talking about big check writers, more often than not, it's just good business. A lot of big campaign contributors write checks across the aisle for that reason.
So what makes someone a good fundraiser?
A good Rolodex. A comfort level with asking for money. And then--if you're a good fundraiser, and you're smart, you know who to target. So if you're fundraising for a Senator who's on the Oil and Gas Committee, you'll give them 25 call sheets with calls to make to people in that industry. Senators raise a lot of money, and the fundraiser will get a percentage of all that.
Is there an industry standard?
Ten percent. Or these days, a lot of people are charging 15%. Or some people get a retainer, usually $5000 a month, and they'll get a percentage of only major gifts. Or if you're a fundraiser who isn't just doing major donations but is managing the direct mail or the Internet [fundraising] portion, you'll get a percentage off of that. Everything is done on percentages.
What's a Senate campaign in Missouri cost? $15 million? $20 million?
I'd say, $12-15 million.
So you can walk away with $1.5 million.
It's not unheard of. People make a lot of money. And that has the whole industry messed up.
Because too much money is going through the campaign back into the pockets of consultants?
Too much goes into the checked box of overhead. Right now we have finance and media consultants buying second houses on their consulting fees--and that's money from the guy that gives $50 and works at T.J.Maxx. As I moved further along in my career, I saw more and more money and more misappropriation of funds and disregard for donors. In today's political world, unless you can afford $2000 and can stand in a reception where the candidate's going to show up, the likelihood of you ever being able to shake hands with a candidate or ask them a question is slim-to-none. For me it was a real eye-opener--seeing the complete disconnect between the individual and the elected official. It's not every politician, but it was enough that I didn't want to be a part of it anymore.
Why?
It just felt disrespectful and dirty. I see a lot of people who work in the industry, and they're consumed not by fundraising for the candidate, but fundraising for themselves. It's an unknown, unregulated industry, and nobody talks about it because no one ever quits or leaves it. But how can you be sincere about your own beliefs when you're constantly looking for your next client? There's no moral compass there.
And that's why you left?
Yes--because it became much more about a numbers game and how many seats we were winning than a real understanding of what the ideology was. And I had serious concerns with some of the incumbents we helped keep in office. I felt they weren't connected to their constituencies anymore, or had used their position for their advantage....I'm a big believer in term limits. The sweet scent of power is intoxicating. The whole system needs an overhaul.
What would that look like?
For one, there should be a limit on the amount of time a candidate can fundraise. Right now, Hillary's been raising money for this race for at least the past six years. And at some point, the dollar becomes so much more important than the kind of leader you're going to be. That's why they call it the green primary. We should require broadcasters to give a certain amount of free time to candidates, and I think there should be a limit to the amount of his or her own money that a candidate can put into the race. There are a lot of changes you could make, but all of them would end up putting fundraisers out of business, and taking money away from broadcasters and the political consultants who make a fortune. And nobody's going to fight for that.
What do you make of Obama's small donors?
I think it's beautiful. Obama's the only one whose fundraising operation started small and has consistently grown.
What potential do you think there is for the Internet as a small-donor aggregator? Beyond Obama, are you ever going to be able to raise a lot of money as a House candidate online?
Oh yes, I think the Internet will replace direct mail--like it's already starting to do on the Democratic side. Republicans still like direct mail, but that will change. If you look at Huckabee, he didn't even have a finance director, and look how far he got.
Has McCain-Feingold at all recalibrated the role of big donors? Do you think their role can ever be supplanted?
No. No. The money's shifted through 527s. It's like water down the sidewalk--it will always find a way to seep into the cracks. Money and influence go hand-in-hand and always will. But I do think you can allow the little voice to get a little bit louder by leveling the playing field a little bit.
It just felt disrespectful and dirty. I see a lot of people who work in the industry, and they're consumed not by fundraising for the candidate, but fundraising for themselves. It's an unknown, unregulated industry, and nobody talks about it because no one ever quits or leaves it. But how can you be sincere about your own beliefs when you're constantly looking for your next client? There's no moral compass there.
And that's why you left?
Yes--because it became much more about a numbers game and how many seats we were winning than a real understanding of what the ideology was. And I had serious concerns with some of the incumbents we helped keep in office. I felt they weren't connected to their constituencies anymore, or had used their position for their advantage....I'm a big believer in term limits. The sweet scent of power is intoxicating. The whole system needs an overhaul.
What would that look like?
For one, there should be a limit on the amount of time a candidate can fundraise. Right now, Hillary's been raising money for this race for at least the past six years. And at some point, the dollar becomes so much more important than the kind of leader you're going to be. That's why they call it the green primary. We should require broadcasters to give a certain amount of free time to candidates, and I think there should be a limit to the amount of his or her own money that a candidate can put into the race. There are a lot of changes you could make, but all of them would end up putting fundraisers out of business, and taking money away from broadcasters and the political consultants who make a fortune. And nobody's going to fight for that.
What do you make of Obama's small donors?
I think it's beautiful. Obama's the only one whose fundraising operation started small and has consistently grown.
What potential do you think there is for the Internet as a small-donor aggregator? Beyond Obama, are you ever going to be able to raise a lot of money as a House candidate online?
Oh yes, I think the Internet will replace direct mail--like it's already starting to do on the Democratic side. Republicans still like direct mail, but that will change. If you look at Huckabee, he didn't even have a finance director, and look how far he got.
Has McCain-Feingold at all recalibrated the role of big donors? Do you think their role can ever be supplanted?
No. No. The money's shifted through 527s. It's like water down the sidewalk--it will always find a way to seep into the cracks. Money and influence go hand-in-hand and always will. But I do think you can allow the little voice to get a little bit louder by leveling the playing field a little bit.
April 18, 2008
grants
Council on Foundations Invites Entries for Film & Video Festival
Deadline: June 27, 2008
The Council on Foundations ( http://www.cof.org/ ) and Grantmakers in Film + Electronic Media ( http://www.gfem.org/ ) are seeking submissions of films and videos for the Council on Foundations' 42nd Annual Film & Video Festival, to be held May 4-6, 2009, in Atlanta, Georgia.
To be eligible, projects must have received full or partial funding for either production or distribution from a private, community, operating, or corporate foundation; a corporate giving program; or a donor network. The grantmaker does not have to be a member of the Council on Foundations or GFEM. The council will not consider submissions that have been funded solely by public agencies or federal or state grants.
The films and videos must have been completed within the past two years. Works may be of any length -- from feature length to a brief public service announcement. No works in progress will be con- sidered. Organizations and filmmakers may submit as many film and video projects as they wish. Each entry must be accompanied by a check in the amount of $60 payable to the Council on Foundations. (The fee helps cover a portion of the program's administrative expenses.)
Visit the program's Web site for complete program details and application procedures. RFP Link: http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15012521/fundfilm
For additional RFPs in Philanthropy and Voluntarism, visit: http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_philanthropy.jhtm
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L'Oreal Paris Celebrates Community Achievement and Volunteerism With Annual Women of Worth Program
Deadline: June 16, 2008
L'Oreal Paris ( http://www.lorealparis.com/ ) has announced that it will continue to recognize and support women who actively serve others in their communities with its third annual Women of Worth grassroots awards program. The initiative honors and awards women from across the United States for their inspiring volunteer work and community enrichment initiatives. This year, ten Women of Worth honorees will each receive $5,000 for their nonprofit causes and a $5,000 donation will be made on their behalf benefiting ovarian cancer research and awareness initiatives, the philanthropy of record for L'Oreal Paris.
In addition, one National Honoree will be chosen via a public vote this fall on the Women of Worth Web site and will receive a $25,000 donation to her nonprofit organization. To date, the L'Oreal Paris Women of Worth initiative has recognized twenty women nationwide for their outstanding commitment to their causes -- ranging from improving literacy, to protecting the environment, to raising awareness of female health issues.
To be eligible, a nominee must be a woman 18 years of age or older; have a record of exemplary service within her community and the community at large; be able to demonstrate the impact of her work within her community; be aspirational and inspirational to others; demonstrate commitment to her cause; exemplify leadership; and be non-compensated.
Visit the Women of Worth Web site for complete program informa- tion and to submit a nomination. RFP Link: http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15012523/womenofworth
For additional RFPs in Women, visit: http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_women.jhtml
Deadline: June 27, 2008
The Council on Foundations ( http://www.cof.org/ ) and Grantmakers in Film + Electronic Media ( http://www.gfem.org/ ) are seeking submissions of films and videos for the Council on Foundations' 42nd Annual Film & Video Festival, to be held May 4-6, 2009, in Atlanta, Georgia.
To be eligible, projects must have received full or partial funding for either production or distribution from a private, community, operating, or corporate foundation; a corporate giving program; or a donor network. The grantmaker does not have to be a member of the Council on Foundations or GFEM. The council will not consider submissions that have been funded solely by public agencies or federal or state grants.
The films and videos must have been completed within the past two years. Works may be of any length -- from feature length to a brief public service announcement. No works in progress will be con- sidered. Organizations and filmmakers may submit as many film and video projects as they wish. Each entry must be accompanied by a check in the amount of $60 payable to the Council on Foundations. (The fee helps cover a portion of the program's administrative expenses.)
Visit the program's Web site for complete program details and application procedures. RFP Link: http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15012521/fundfilm
For additional RFPs in Philanthropy and Voluntarism, visit: http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_philanthropy.jhtm
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L'Oreal Paris Celebrates Community Achievement and Volunteerism With Annual Women of Worth Program
Deadline: June 16, 2008
L'Oreal Paris ( http://www.lorealparis.com/ ) has announced that it will continue to recognize and support women who actively serve others in their communities with its third annual Women of Worth grassroots awards program. The initiative honors and awards women from across the United States for their inspiring volunteer work and community enrichment initiatives. This year, ten Women of Worth honorees will each receive $5,000 for their nonprofit causes and a $5,000 donation will be made on their behalf benefiting ovarian cancer research and awareness initiatives, the philanthropy of record for L'Oreal Paris.
In addition, one National Honoree will be chosen via a public vote this fall on the Women of Worth Web site and will receive a $25,000 donation to her nonprofit organization. To date, the L'Oreal Paris Women of Worth initiative has recognized twenty women nationwide for their outstanding commitment to their causes -- ranging from improving literacy, to protecting the environment, to raising awareness of female health issues.
To be eligible, a nominee must be a woman 18 years of age or older; have a record of exemplary service within her community and the community at large; be able to demonstrate the impact of her work within her community; be aspirational and inspirational to others; demonstrate commitment to her cause; exemplify leadership; and be non-compensated.
Visit the Women of Worth Web site for complete program informa- tion and to submit a nomination. RFP Link: http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/15012523/womenofworth
For additional RFPs in Women, visit: http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/cat_women.jhtml
producers needed
"The New Girl Next Door" (a PSA) is the real story as told by prominent females of color representing various professions (Journalism, Athletics, Entertainment, Authors, Models, Entrepreneurs) speaking candidly to the next generation. The project will place a positive message in the public realm specifically intended for young females of color, approx. 13 to 21 years old, specifically targeting those living in our inner cities.
"The New Girl Next Door" is in search of "Fundraising" Producer (any location) and Two "Associate Producers," one in Los Angeles and one in NYC. Please note the bulk of the work for the Associate Producers will be in NYC. We currently have 25% of the funding in place, a fiscal sponsor, and conformation of three A-List females w/several more considering. Once selected for the interview process you will receive more details (treatment, principal conformations, crew bios, etc.) about the project (short synopsis below).
1. "Fundraising" Producer - Fee: Percentage
In search of an experienced professional to join an intimate creative team. You must have experience in securing major donor sponsorship. You should be bold, creative, and have a passion for the project. You will receive "Producer" credit and a generous percentage for all funding you bring to the table and given warm leads. This position is specifically geared for a seasoned professional, especially considering the caliber of the principals/subjects.
2. Associate Producer - Fee: Paid
In search of a professional and talented Associate Producer for documentary style interviews of 5 or more subjects. You must be highly organized and flexible with good communication, computer, and interpersonal skills. You need to be a detail-oriented individual w/excellent management skills. Additional experience: strong research skills, production scheduling, book crew, organize shoots, manage intern and more. You should have a strong background in field production and most importantly accustomed to dealing w/high profile personalities.
Please send your resume, links to work, and references w/full contact information to Mary at mavsil@earthlink.net
"The New Girl Next Door" is in search of "Fundraising" Producer (any location) and Two "Associate Producers," one in Los Angeles and one in NYC. Please note the bulk of the work for the Associate Producers will be in NYC. We currently have 25% of the funding in place, a fiscal sponsor, and conformation of three A-List females w/several more considering. Once selected for the interview process you will receive more details (treatment, principal conformations, crew bios, etc.) about the project (short synopsis below).
1. "Fundraising" Producer - Fee: Percentage
In search of an experienced professional to join an intimate creative team. You must have experience in securing major donor sponsorship. You should be bold, creative, and have a passion for the project. You will receive "Producer" credit and a generous percentage for all funding you bring to the table and given warm leads. This position is specifically geared for a seasoned professional, especially considering the caliber of the principals/subjects.
2. Associate Producer - Fee: Paid
In search of a professional and talented Associate Producer for documentary style interviews of 5 or more subjects. You must be highly organized and flexible with good communication, computer, and interpersonal skills. You need to be a detail-oriented individual w/excellent management skills. Additional experience: strong research skills, production scheduling, book crew, organize shoots, manage intern and more. You should have a strong background in field production and most importantly accustomed to dealing w/high profile personalities.
Please send your resume, links to work, and references w/full contact information to Mary at mavsil@earthlink.net
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