Bonfils-Stanton Foundation

In Denver, the power of music extends far beyond the stage—it becomes a force for equity, education, and transformation. El Sistema Colorado (@elsistemacolorado) believes that every child deserves access to the profound benefits of music education, regardless of socioeconomic background. Through rigorous, immersive programming, they provide young musicians with the tools to express themselves, build confidence, and cultivate leadership—skills that resonate far beyond the concert hall. At Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, we recognize the vital role that arts education plays in shaping a more vibrant, inclusive future. Earlier this year, we were thrilled to partner with El Sistema Colorado through a $30,000 grant from our quarterly grant cycle, supporting their mission to ignite the potential of Denver’s youth through music. From the first notes played on a violin to the collective energy of an orchestra, El Sistema Colorado is more than a music program—it’s a movement, breaking barriers and creating lasting change for young people across the city. ?? Learn more about their impact at @elsistemacolorado. #DenverArts #DenverMusic #MileHighArts #DenverMusicScene #ExploreDenver #DenverCreatives #DenverCulture #DenverLiveMusic #DenverColorado #DenverSchools #DenverYouth #DenverKids

Reminder to apply: Inclusive Communities Grants due March 17th! This funding opportunity supports community-oriented organizations that strengthen Denver's cultural ecosystem through arts and culture programs. ?? $10,000 in unrestricted funding is available for Denver-area arts and culture organizations, with priority for those led by, informed by, and serving BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disability communities. A representative community panel will review applications, and funding decisions will be announced in late April 2025. ?? Deadline to apply: March 17, 2025 ??Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/g4E5JfFQ

?? Grant Opportunity Alert! ?? Applications are now open for Bonfils-Stanton Foundation’s Inclusive Communities grants! This funding opportunity supports community-oriented organizations that strengthen Denver’s cultural ecosystem through arts and culture programs. ?? $10,000 in unrestricted funding is available for Denver-area arts & culture organizations, with priority for those led by, informed by, and serving BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disability communities. A representative community panel will review applications, and funding decisions will be announced in late April 2025. ?? Deadline to apply: March 17, 2025 ?? Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/g4E5JfFQ #ArtsFunding #InclusiveCommunities #DenverArts #ArtsGrants #NonprofitSupport

In 2013, Bonfils-Stanton Foundation made the decision to focus funding primarily on arts and culture. At the time, the arts were often perceived as serving the elite—an industry removed from the real challenges of humanity. While this stigma may have led other funders to shy away from supporting the arts, Bonfils upheld that arts are a human right, serving all people in our community. By stepping in against the grain, we reassessed how supporting the arts aligned with our unshifting values.? We set out to change the misperception that the arts are elitist. Since then, the foundation has advocated for a deeper understanding of art as a full reflection of the human experience. Art and culture belong to us all, including the poor, the broken, the disenfranchised, the forgotten, and the unnamed. Its economic and cultural benefits to society are vast and profound; and a polarized nation needs art more than ever to bridge the misunderstandings that create “the other.”? Bonfils-Stanton Foundation envisions an equitable and flourishing city, fueled by transformational leaders and a vibrant and diverse arts and culture sector. We believe that the same artistic spirit that dares to color a blank canvas is essential in imagining a world that does not yet exist. Therefore, we have not—and will not—be deterred from our necessary work. We stand firm in our mission to “Invest in inclusive, diverse, and equitable arts and culture organizations and social sector leaders to create a thriving and just Denver.”? Our newly formed Advocacy and Policy Committee has closely monitored the rhetoric and policies of the current political environment, working to build strong local and national coalitions rooted in shared values while shaping how we can leverage all our resources toward long-term systemic change. We are committed to building a world where belonging and opportunity are available to everyone.?We will continue to provide updates as our work evolves and look forward to the ongoing support of grant partners and leaders who dare to dream big.? Bonfils-Stanton Foundation

?? Exciting News! ?? We are happy to announce our 3rd quarter FY25 grant recipients. These organizations are making a tremendous impact on our Denver communities and beyond with engaging, educational and joyful arts & culture experiences. ?????? Here’s a snapshot of the funding: ? ArtistiCO – $25,000 ? Curious Theatre Company – $60,000 ? Denver Biennial of the Americas – $25,000 ? El Sistema Colorado – $30,000 ? Latino Cultural Arts Center – $30,000 ? Museo de las Americas – $25,000 ? Cleo Parker Robinson Dance – $60,000 ? Denver Film Society – $30,000 ? Lighthouse Writers Workshop – $30,000 ? Su Teatro – $60,000 ? Colorado Symphony – $60,000 ? Newman Center for the Performing Arts – $35,000 ? Athena Project – $17,500 ? Augustana Arts – $17,000 ? Colorado Public Television – $15,000 ? Denver's Art District on Santa Fe – $20,000 ? Philanthropy Colorado – $7,000 ? SeriesFest – $15,000 ? Stories on Stage – $10,000 ? The Art Garage – $4,000 Visit our website to learn more.

A must read from John Moore Arts Coverage about the future of the NEA. Bonfils-Stanton CEO and President Gary Steuer is quoted saying he is, "Cautiously optimistic the NEA will at least survive." He noted that Trump tired to eliminate the agency before "but it has been shown over many decades the NEA has broad, bipartisan support, particularly in rural areas." https://ow.ly/oGfJ50UM2rF

Dive into the story behind Bonfils-Stanton Foundation’s legacy and connection to Denver’s arts and culture scene. This featured Denver Gazette piece highlights the challenges and triumphs of shaping a vibrant Denver through support of the arts. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/g_SMn2G9 #ArtsInDenver #CommunityImpact #DenverArts #Philanthropy #CreativeCommunity #CulturalLegacy #ArtMatters #whyarts

We started off the new year with a wonderful feature from the Denver Gazette. https://lnkd.in/g_SMn2G9 #DenverGazette #DenverNews #FeatureStory #DenverArts #SupportLocalArts

As you celebrate this holiday season, we wish you joy, rest, and all the best for next year. Our offices will be closed from December 23rd to January 2nd for a time of rejuvenation. We look forward to coming back stronger than ever in supporting arts + culture, and leadership in 2025 and beyond. Sincerely, the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation Team

This year was one for the ages photo dump part 1. ?? Brien Hollowell