Facebook-f Twitter Linkedin
Get in Touch

Project Type: Grant

Arts & Culture

Project Type: Grant

Amount: 25,000.00

Start Date: June 2024

End Date: June 2025

Services Provided

Program Development Budgeting Grant Writing

The Problem

Fresno had one of the lowest per capita park investments in the nation, with many neighborhoods—particularly in Southwest and Southeast Fresno—lacking access to safe, clean, and well-maintained parks, green spaces, or youth recreation facilities. At the same time, local arts and cultural organizations were underfunded, limiting opportunities for youth development, community engagement, and economic vitality. Without a dedicated funding stream, the city was unable to keep pace with maintenance needs, expand recreational programming, or invest in equitable access to the benefits of public spaces and creative expression.

The Solution

Measure P was introduced as a sustainable, community-led solution to address these disparities, improve public health, and enhance quality of life through consistent funding for parks, arts, and culture. Measure P is a local Fresno, California ballot initiative passed in 2022 that provides dedicated funding for parks, arts, and cultural programs through a ⅜-cent sales tax increase. The measure is designed to improve access to safe and clean parks, expand youth and senior recreation services, support local artists, and invest in underserved neighborhoods. Managed through community oversight, Measure P aims to promote health, equity, and economic development across the city.

Key Points

Key Points of Measure P:

1. **Local Sales Tax Increase**

A 0.375% increase in Fresno’s sales tax (about 3.75 cents per $10) dedicated to parks, arts, and cultural programs.

2. **Funding and Duration**

Expected to generate $38–40 million annually for 30 years, with funds legally restricted for parks and cultural arts.

3. **Purpose and Use of Funds**

To revitalize and maintain public parks, develop new parks and trails, and support youth and senior programs, including arts activities.

4. **Equity Focus**

Prioritizes funding for low-income and underserved communities to address disparities in parks and greenspace.

Overview

Key Writing Concepts understands the power of arts and culture to inspire, heal, and strengthen community identity. We’ve supported organizations in securing funding through Measure P General Operating Support and Measure P Project-Specific grants, which sustain essential arts programming and historic preservation initiatives. This opportunity not only uplifts local artists and institutions but also promotes cultural equity and community engagement. Through compelling storytelling and mission-aligned grant strategy, we helped arts-focused organizations thrive and expand their reach.
Back to All Projects
At KWC, we work alongside an organization, large or small, to further its mission and core values and raise up the population it serves.

Let's Connect

© 2021 Key Writing Concepts, Inc.

Have ideas?

Let's move forward.