The Napa County Board of Supervisors awarded more than $200,000 in grant funds to 11 Napa County arts, culture and heritage nonprofits for capacity building at its regular meeting on May 20.

The Board approved the following grants, following recommendations from the Arts & Culture Advisory Committee:

           “Art brings people together and strengthens communities. That is why the Board of Supervisors designated funding for art, cultural and heritage organizations through capacity- building grants as one of three areas that receive financial support from our Special Projects Fund.” said Diane Dillon, District 3 Supervisor and vice chair of the Board of Supervisors.

          “The grants awarded in 2014 will be transformational for many of the 11 nonprofits, providing vital funds to enhance their long-term work to enliven, challenge and unite our society. These organizations provide invaluable programs for all residents, as well as the millions of visitors who wish to experience our culture each year.” said Olivia Everett, chair of the Arts & Culture Advisory Committee.

           Funding for the capacity-building grants comes from the County’s Special Projects Fund. The Board awards up to 10 percent of the value of that fund, which comes from revenues generated through the transient occupancy tax, to arts and culture, each year. Arts, culture and heritage Napa County non-profits are chosen through a competitive application and review process established by the Arts & Culture Advisory Committee to the Board of Supervisors.

The Board of Supervisors and staff of Napa County are dedicated to preserving and sustaining Napa County for present and future generations as a community with generous open space, a thriving agricultural industry and a quality human and natural environment. Visit us on the Web at www.countyofnapa.org.