Dear Councilmember [NAME], 

As a Montgomery County resident, I would like to express my deep appreciation for ​your stalwart support of the county’s creative sector, ​an integral contributor to our county’s economic growth.

I am writing today to ask for your continued support of the arts and humanities in the FY22 Budget to help ensure an equitable recovery for our creative workforce.  

Please: 

• Support the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County’s (AHCMC) request for an increased budget allocation to support the rising demand for operational and project grants to organizations, artists and scholars. 

• Support AHCMC’s request for $3.33 million in pandemic relief and recovery funds annually for FY 2021, FY 2022, & FY 2023 from the $203 million in relief funding received by the county through the federal American Rescue Plan.
  

The arts and humanities are a $198 million industry in Montgomery County. Once operational, the arts and cultural sector will remain integral to our local economic recovery and enhance the quality of life for my family and all residents. 

[OPTIONAL PERSONAL STORY – WHY THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES ARE IMPORTANT TO ME/HOW THEY AFFECT YOUR LIFE AND FAMILY]

​With over $57 million lost due to state and local closures caused by the pandemic, our artists, scholars and creative nonprofits need your help.

Please continue to support the arts and humanities, Montgomery County needs more creativity, joy and diversity in our recovery as we safely reopen.

Sincerely,  

[YOUR NAME]