Metro Arts Alliance

About Metro Arts

Mission and Vision
History
Staff and Board Members

Metro Arts Alliance enriches the quality of life in Greater Des Moines by connecting people to the arts through programming, communication and support of artists and arts organizations.

As a regional arts service organization, Metro Arts works with the public and our members to ensure that the arts survive and thrive in Greater Des Moines. It is

**Storyteller Jim Boardman teaches a 2nd grade class at Jackson Elementary during a long-term residency.**

a non-profit organization that advocates for the arts, cultivates public participation in the arts, and creates partnerships between the artistic, business and cultural communities.

Metro Arts touches the lives of 7,800 children each year through arts education programs.
We draw 4,500 people downtown for the Metro Arts Two Rivers Expo each fall.
Metro Arts presents Jazz in July, which brings 15,000 people to free concerts throughout the month of July.
Metro Arts employs more than 500 artists and provides 200 artist referrals per year.
Number of people served in the community last year: 67,050.
Metro Arts has connected people to the arts since 1975.

Volunteer opportunities
There are multiple volunteer opportunities with Metro Arts including serving on the Board of Directors and assisting with Metro Arts Jazz in July, Metro Arts Two Rivers Expo, Education Outreach programs and other events. There are also multiple internship opportunities through Metro Arts and our member organizations, including assistance with our newsletter and website. For more information about how you can get involved, contact Metro Arts at 515-280-3222 or email us.

Our Mission
Metro Arts Alliance enriches the quality of lifein the metro area by connecting people to the arts through programming, communication and support of artists and arts organizations.

Our Vision
By 2010, Metro Arts will be recognized as the leading proponent for artists and arts organizations in the metro area. Through our work, the arts will be everywhere, accessible to everyone. Financially strong, Metro Arts will be highly valued and supported by the communicty. We will create, collaborate and educate.

We create -
    * Metro Arts creates opportunities for everyone to participate in the arts.
    * We create a positive buzz - a high level of awareness and excitement about the arts.
    * We inspire a lifelong passion for the arts.

We collaborate -
    * Metro Arts is recognized for its leading role in collaborating with cultural organizations, artists, businesses, educators, governments and a variety of other groups to connect people to the arts.
    * Community, business and cultural leaders regularly seek our perspective to ensure that the arts agenda is represented throughout community planning and decision-making.

We educate -
    * Metro Arts is "the place" people turn to for arts information.
    * We enrich the development of children through schools and parks programs.
    * We encourage lifelong learning through the arts.
    * We are a leading voice in advocating the benefits of the arts.

The arts build communities. Greater Des Moines will be recognized as a place where the arts thrive because of Metro Arts Alliance.

History

Metro Arts Alliance began in 1969 after city leaders recommended forming a community council to review human service needs and resources. That group reviewed existing programs and recommended changes to eliminate gaps, duplications and shortcomings. This assessment led to the study and formation in 1973 of the Arts and Recreation Council of Greater Des Moines with 35 board members. A staff person was hired and an office was established through Chamber of Commerce and Hawley Foundation grants. The Arts and Recreation Council changed its name to Metro Arts Alliance of Greater Des Moines in 1992. The initial mission to serve as an umbrella agency for arts, humanities, recreational and educational organizations has evolved into an organization that connects people to the arts through programming, communication and support of artists and arts organizations.

Metro Arts Alliance is dedicated to strengthening the central Iowa community through art, theater, music and dance. A rich diversity of arts programs, educational opportunities and cultural events make our city a more vital and interesting place to live while attracting new businesses and residents. Our on-going mission is to enrich the quality of life in Greater Des Moines by making the arts accessible to all.

Staff and Board Members

**President-elect Mac Stanfield recognizes President Ben Allen for his 2007 term as President of Metro Arts' Board of Directors during the annual meeting.**

Metro Arts Board Members volunteer their time and talents to serve three-year terms. With monthly meetings and assignments on additional committees, these dedicated volunteers provide leadership, balance and hard work to ensure that Metro Arts Alliance meets the diverse needs of the community.

Metro Arts Alliance Board of Directors
President: Mac Stanfield President-Elect: Colleen Kirkwood Vice-President: Brad Rippey Secretary: Ken Watkins Treasurer: Michelle Gowdy Past President: Ben Allen	Tanya Baker Stacy S. Berenguel Scott Berry Nancy L. Betz Ellen Burnquist Joe Domeier David Johns Liza Kindred Kitty Olsen Brian Porter	Nancy Prizant Christine Riccelli Andy TeBockhorst Kevin Tiffany Catherine Tone Jomarie Tucci Mikiel A. Williams Sandi Yoder

Metro Arts Alliance Staff

Tracy Levine, Executive Director

Jana Anderson, Outreach Coordinator

Cat Hall, Project Specialist

Natalie Johansen, Newsletter Editor and Designer

Location
The Metro Arts office is located in the Teachout Building, 500 East Locust, Suite 201, Des Moines, Iowa 50309.
Phone: 515-280-3222
Fax: 515-280-3223
email us