We are thrilled to announce that our Prison Arts Program has been awarded a prestigious $130,000 grant from ArtsHERE—a pilot program of the National Endowment for the Arts—recognizing our innovative contributions to the arts and social justice. This competitive grant program, which drew over 4,000 applicants nationwide, issued only 112 awards this year, positioning us among a select group of grantees. Receiving this special funding is a true honor and a validation of the hard work and dedication that drives our Prison Arts Program.
The grant was presented in early October at a press conference led by U.S. Rep. John Larson (1st Congressional District-CT) at CT State Community College Manchester in the Hans Weiss Newspace Gallery where the 2024 Prison Arts annual show was held. Larson has been a steadfast supporter of CPA’s mission and programs and noted the award underscored the transformative impact CPA’s programs have on individuals and communities alike, helping to propel the Prison Arts Program to a new national level of recognition and support.
“This award is not only an honor but a reflection of our commitment to fostering creativity and transformation within the criminal justice system,” shared Beth Hines, CPA’s Executive Director. “The support from ArtsHERE will elevate our work, enabling us to continue providing meaningful opportunities for growth and expression of the program for those we serve.”
Jeffrey Greene, Manager of the Prison Arts Program, described his enthusiasm about the program’s future: “Art allows those individuals locked away from their families and communities to find their voice and connect with others in powerful ways. This grant will help us to further market the program within prisons and offer more people the space for creative freedom and self-discovery, which is so essential for true rehabilitation.”
Also in attendance and offering remarks included Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, Manchester Mayor Jay Moran, CT State Community College Manchester CEO Dr. Nicole C. Esposito, and fellow awardee HartBeat Ensemble Artistic Director Godfrey L. Simmons Jr. Read more about the press conference here.