CHADRON – The Open Frontier Creative District in Chadron has been awarded $100,000 in development grant funding by the Nebraska Arts Council.
The award, announced March 6, will assist in several projects that will either enhance or sustain the arts in Chadron.
The development grant will support four separate organizations,” said Kerri Rempp, director of Discover Northwest Nebraska and the chair of the Creative District Committee. “The committee was dedicated to incorporating multiple projects into the grant application.”
“The project aligns with the mission of supporting local/regional artists and fostering creative expression. It has strong potential to enhance the local arts scene, benefiting both established and emerging artists,” wrote the judging panel in its award notice.
Most of the funds – $87,500 – will go toward the purchase of a portable stage for live performances within the community. The stage will be owned by Fur Trade Days, Inc., but organizers will be able to make the stage available for other live performance events.
“We’re excited for the opportunity to bring new infrastructure to the community,” said Dave Hockenbary of Fur Trade Days. “This is a great first step toward acquiring a new stage as the current one is showing its age. We will be launching additional fundraising efforts to complete the project.”
Chadron Open Art will be allocated $6,000 to sustain the organization’s mission, and the Chadron Arts Center will receive $5,000 for infrastructure repairs.
“This grant is an incredible opportunity for Chadron Open Art to enrich our community through continued arts programming, art shows, and cultural events. It empowers us to continue nurturing local creativity, strengthening community connections, and making Chadron a more inspiring and inviting place for everyone,” said Chadron Open Art board member Danny Anderson.
“This grant will enable the Chadron Art Center to repair the roof and interior damage, and allow the building to continue to be a beautiful venue for promoting the arts,” said Don Foulk, president of the Art Center board.
Finally, the Chadron Public Library will start a seed bank with $1,500 in funding. The library will distribute growing pots and establish a library of tools and implements for gardeners to check-out with the goal of fostering a sense of community and the ability to produce healthy foods at home. In addition, the library will provide classes on techniques and useful tips, host a harvest feast for participants and engage the community in an art show, said Head Librarian Rossella Tesch.
As district administrator for the Open Frontier Creative District, the City of Chadron will oversee the grant with assistance from the creative district committee. The grant cycle lasts two years.
“I’m grateful to the Creative District and all those who had the out-of-box thinking on capturing some of this grant money for several projects,” said City Manager Tom Menke.
