NCG Welcomes Sarah Williams as New Arts Loan Fund Co-Chair
NCG's longest-running fund, the Arts Loan Fund (ALF) is excited to announce a new co-chair, Sarah Williams, Arts Program Officer at the Kenneth Rainin Foundation. The current ALF Chair Ron Muriera chatted with Sarah about the impact of the arts in social change, support that's needed for organizations in this moment, and what's missing in overall philanthropic funding for the sector. Get to know Sarah and read the interview, below!
Ron: What are some of the most important needs you are seeing in the sector?
Sarah: I see three core areas needing the most support at this moment.
- Increased financial support. Particularly general operating and flexible funds that allow organizations to adapt, innovate, and sustain their work over time.
- Updated business models. This would support a more resilient and equitable workforce.
- New policies and systems. This would enable artists and arts workers to thrive holistically in their creative practice, livelihoods, health, and overall well-being.
Ron: What do you think the larger philanthropic community overlooks about the arts and culture community?
Sarah: I think the larger philanthropic community often overlooks just how deeply arts and culture are woven into the health and resilience of our communities. The arts can be thought of as a luxury or simply an entertainment, rather than as an essential part of addressing the complex, systemic issues we face. The arts should be seen as an critical tool in the overall toolbox philanthropy reaches in sustaining vibrant and strong communities.
Ron: How has ALF been a support to the arts and culture ecosystem in the region?
Sarah: For many small and midsize arts organizations, managing cash flow can be a constant challenge. ALF provides a crucial safety net during those tight financial moments. By offering access to low-interest loans, ALF allows organizations to spend less time in crisis mode and more time focusing on their creative work and community impact.
Ron: What is at risk when we don’t include arts and culture in conversations about larger social change work?
Sarah: Artists are so often at the forefront. They are the visionaries that help us to create the conditions for the world we want to see. We need that creativity to be a part of social change work, movement building, shifting narratives. Artists bring people together and challenge us to dream and to imagine a different future. Arts and culture are critical to social change work and always will be.
Ron: Where are you finding inspiration in the local arts and culture community?
Sarah: I’m always inspired by the work! Artists are among the most determined group and to see the work continuing despite the many headwinds, hardships, and challenges that are ever present is always an inspiration. I love being able to attend dance performances, theater productions, festivals, and other cultural events throughout the Bay Area.
What are some of the most important ALF learnings of 2024?
Sarah: One learning I’ve taken away from last year is the importance of flexibility. Organizations are experiencing so many challenges right now and, unlike more traditional commercial lenders, ALF has the ability to be more flexible in the lending process.
Ron: What brings you joy?
Sarah: The produce section at Berkeley Bowl, sitting on a rocker on my tiny back porch, hiking on a warm sunny day in February, visiting my local library, wedding dance floors…the list goes on!
About the Arts Loan Fund
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