Keeping the Arts (KTA) is a non-profit, 501(c)3 Oregon-based organization (EIN 20-8248790).
KTA was formed in 2010 when two non-profits with similar missions, Keeping the Beat and Artists for the Arts, decided to merge. Artists for the Arts was founded in 2002 by Valerie Day. Keeping the Beat was founded in 2007 by Steve Gehlen.
KTA grants money to various K-12 arts education programs in Oregon at the discretion of the Board of Directors. As of April 2019, we have granted $150,000 to such programs, with a primary focus on rural Oregon communities. Arts education programs can apply for grants by clicking here.
Our primary fundraiser is the Portland Creative Conference (aka Cre8con).
Mission Statement
To help ensure that the arts remain an integral part of education for children in K – 12 schools throughout the state of Oregon, and especially in underserved rural communities, Keeping the Arts (KTA) raises funding and awareness through the collaborative efforts of artists, businesses, educators, organizations and the community.
Vision Statement
To ensure the arts remain a key and active part of education for kids grades K – 12 in Oregon schools, to support educators by helping them bring their specific ideas for arts education to life, and to empower people to be part of the solution with an easy method of engagement.