Plumas Arts reports it has launched its largest annual fundraising effort to support Artist in the Schools, a cornerstone program that brings hands-on arts education to students in kindergarten through sixth grade throughout Plumas County. The campaign aims to secure funding to ensure every local elementary student receives a 10-week in-class arts residency delivered by local teaching artists.
AIS has served thousands of students since its inception in 1989. With rising program costs and limited grant availability this year, Plumas Arts is calling on the community to help sustain a program that organizers say remains vital for youth creativity, wellness and academic engagement.
Each $99 contribution sponsors one student for the full 10-week arts experience, covering supplies, artist stipends, curriculum development and administrative support. Community members may sponsor one or more students; for larger contributions or sponsorships, Plumas Arts encourages donors to contact the organization directly.
“We know how deeply the AIS program impacts our students,” said Plumas Arts Executive Director Christopher Rouse Islas Hernandez. “Art builds confidence, emotional resilience and connection. This fundraiser ensures students across Quincy, C. Roy Carmichael, Greenville and Chester continue receiving meaningful arts opportunities during the school day.”
Plumas Arts recently secured $10,000 from the Feather River Community Fund and is working closely with the new Plumas Unified School District superintendent, Richard DuVarney, to strengthen long-term support for AIS. Additional meetings with principals and administrators are scheduled in the coming weeks to expand teacher participation and build aligned district involvement.
To ensure a smooth rollout and stable funding stream, Plumas Arts and Plumas Unified have mutually agreed to shift the AIS start date to March 2. This adjustment allows the program to launch with full administrative support, confirmed artist schedules and a sustainable long-term structure.
All funds raised stay within Plumas County and directly support arts education for local youth.
More information, including how to make a donation, is available at www.plumasarts.org or by calling 530-283-3402.
