Frequently Asked Questions
About Creative Washtenaw
To advocate for and support the artists, creative workers, organizations, businesses, educators and municipalities engaged in Washtenaw County's arts + creative industries to ensure the greater Ann Arbor area remains a great place for ALL to create, live, work, learn, play and visit.
Creative Washtenaw applies its commitment to forever evolving and learning about diversity, equity and inclusion into its human resource governance. That includes leaning in to listen, hear and internalize how its community defines the qualities of art and creativity -be it by the cultural expert, the credentialed scholar, the journeyed, self-taught master and/or the astute consumer of the form. It also means fostering a culture that is respectful and free of discrimination or harassment for all.
Creative Washtenaw is committed to following and complying with nonprofit best practices. We regularly update our policies, including by-laws, board responsibilities, financial procedures, policies, communications and risk management.
Please email info@creativewashtenaw.org
Industry Specifics
The intrinsic and aesthetic values of art and creativity are determining factors of success for artists and creative workers. They have creative practices, own creative businesses, hold creative jobs in profit, nonprofit, educational and government entities and produce creative goods, services and programs for the residents and visitors to our cities, towns and villages. They are professionals, amateurs, students and industry experts leading the sector locally, nationally and internationally.
The campaign to raise aid for artists, creatives workers, organizations and businesses in the greater Ann Arbor area was originally initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. It continues as an emergency fund for those in the arts + creative industries facing economic, health or social crises.
Membership & Benefits
Creative members include artists, creative workers, organizations, businesses, and educational and government entities. Ranging from professionals to students, they lead the sector locally, nationally, and internationally. They engage in creative practices, run businesses, and hold jobs across various sectors, producing goods, services, and programs for residents, visitors, and personal fulfillment.
Individuals, organizations, businesses, foundations, and government agencies in Washtenaw County value the arts and creative industries, frequently attend cultural events, and support equitable, high-quality arts education for all children. They appreciate handcrafted goods, well-designed spaces, and understand that modern businesses and employees thrive in vibrant, authentic communities.
Ally Memberships are an alternative way to support CW for those who would prefer to donate or sponsor versus maintain a monthly Creative Membership.
Creative Washtenaw Happy Hour (CWHH) is a monthly gathering exclusively offered to members and those curious about joining the Creative Washtenaw community. It’s a welcoming space where artists, creatives, and supporters from across Washtenaw County can connect, share, and unwind.
CWHH is held at various locations throughout Washtenaw County on the last Wednesday of every month from 4:30-6pm
