The PGE Foundation is continuing its longstanding commitment to arts and culture by awarding Creative Expression Grants to 30 organizations, totaling $295,500. These grants provide arts access and integrated learning opportunities with a focus on three impact areas: foundational art skills development, youth creative expression and integration of arts into K-12 curricula.

“When students are encouraged to explore the world through creative experiences and artistic endeavors — writing, drawing, painting, dancing, singing, designing — they develop a greater sense of who they are and a stronger voice in who they want to become,” said Kregg Arntson, executive director of the PGE Foundation.

Recognizing the importance of supporting organizations in communities that have traditionally lacked access to arts and culture programs, the PGE Foundation granted a third of this year’s funds to culturally specific organizations serving communities of color. These include bilingual arts residencies at Teatro Milagro (Miracle Theater Group) and filmmaking training opportunities for youth of color through Lion Speaks’ production of Outdoor School: The Movie.

Additionally, the Foundation is investing in several projects that use the power of creative expression to strengthen socio-emotional skills, engagement and connection for participants with disabilities. North Pole Studio engages artists with autism and intellectual or developmental disabilities to thrive as active members of the arts community. Steps for Youth’s DanceAbility program builds an inclusive community for youth with disabilities through movement and dance. PGE Foundation is also proud to support the Portland Art Museum in its efforts to improve ADA accessibility to its collections through the construction of the Mark Rothko Pavilion.

For 25 years, the PGE Foundation has invested in arts and culture programs that foster creative educational environments that support the development of skills, artistic appreciation, creativity, and resiliency for youth.

Please see the full list of PGE Foundation 2022 Creative Expression grant recipients.

About the PGE Foundation

The PGE Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Portland General Electric. Founded in 1997, the foundation was created through an endowment with the expressed purpose of improving the quality of life for Oregonians. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $28 million to community organizations across the state. We champion values that embrace diversity, equity and inclusion. Working together with community members, partners and friends, we are committed to using our time and resources to help eliminate disparities and create an equitable society where all people can reach their full potential. To learn more, please visit pgefoundation.org.