The Los Angeles County Arts Commission has announced the Community Impact Arts Grant (CIAG) program, a new funding opportunity for nonprofit organizations that use the arts to support their missions while primarily providing a wider range of services and programs. The application deadline is October 28.

CIAG funds address health, human services and criminal justice issues, providing financial support for arts programming taking place at nonprofit social service and health organizations, religious organizations and institutions of higher education.

Organizations will be able to ask for $5,000 to $20,000 in support, with more than $500,000 in grant funds awarded annually.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors allocated a total of $1.5 million over three years in support of the program and the National Endowment for the Arts provided seed funding.

“We need to reach a more diverse sector of our population with arts programming,” said Hilda Solis, Supervisor, 2nd District. “We would like to be certain that it effectively reaches Los Angeles County residents who do not typically receive exposure or have access to the arts. This program is an important step in ensuring this happens.”

Several workshops will be held throughout the county in September and October. These workshops include information about the program, a walkthrough of the guidelines, eligibility requirements and tips on submitting strong proposals.

CIAG guidelines and application are available at lacountyarts.org/CIAG.