Operating Support

In 2021 - a group of stakeholders (instructors, community members and partners) were gathered as a focus group to discuss the past and future of Duluth Folk School. This was part of a strategic planning process that aimed to set the course and strategy for the next 3 years. Prior to the organization becoming a 501c3 - feedback was sought more informally as the founders built personal relationships with artists and makers in the region. Stakeholder engagement since that time has occurred through class evaluations and satisfaction surveys, social media, monthly newsletters, and conversations at community events and classes. Feedback is encouraged and reviewed via digital, phone, and in-person channels. The courses offered at Duluth Folk School are proposed by community member instructors and therefore the catalog of offerings is shaped by the skills people are able and willing to share at this time. There is room to improve our feedback loops and community engagement to ensure that Duluth Folk School is meeting the community needs. Funding from ARAC would improve staff capacity to dedicate time to these important community collaborations, clarification of goals and metrics, and alignment with other initiatives around art, wellbeing and mental health, and social cohesion. ; Classes at Duluth Folk School encourage people to try new things, strengthen skills, and connect with each other. The benefits of friends and neighbors coming together to make things by hand are many. Handcrafting and art classes and community gatherings reduce feelings of isolation, build confidence, and improve mental health. Skill sharing also promotes equity and a more resilient community.