When funding for the arts gets cut, it’s not just about losing performances or exhibitions—it’s about losing a piece of our community’s soul. That’s why events like the recent square dance and BBQ fundraiser for the Genesee Valley Council on the Arts (GVCA) matter so much.
### **Art Is More Than Just Entertainment**
The arts bring people together. Whether it’s through music, dance, painting, or theater, creativity connects us in ways that nothing else can. When GVCA lost its funding, it wasn’t just a financial blow—it was a threat to the cultural heartbeat of Livingston County.
### **Grassroots Efforts Make a Difference**
The fact that people came together for a square dance and BBQ to raise money shows how much the arts mean to this community. It’s proof that when institutions fail us, we can still step up. Fundraisers like this aren’t just about money—they’re about solidarity. They remind us that art belongs to everyone, and everyone has a role in keeping it alive.
### **What’s Next?**
We can’t rely on unstable funding forever. If we want thriving arts programs, we need long-term solutions—more grants, corporate sponsorships, and, most importantly, public support. Attend shows. Buy local art. Volunteer. Every little bit helps.
At the end of the day, the arts aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity. They shape our identity, spark conversations, and keep our communities vibrant. So let’s keep dancing, creating, and fighting for them. Because without art, what are we really left with?
**#KeepTheArtsAlive #SupportLocalArt #CommunityMatters**
