This is the twelfth year the city has particpated in CAPP and Larson said it's a unique way to foster livelyhood throuhgout the city.  Last year, the city divided $50,000 between 14 organizations in amounts ranging from $1000 to $4500.  

Applicants are reviewed by a committee and selected based on the projected artistic advancement as an outcome, community benefit of the project being funded, and its accessibility to the community.  Applicants are also selected based on their managerial and fiscal competence and whether there is appropriate compensation for artists with the intended use of the grant money. 

Last year's grant recipients ranged from the The Ballet School of Stamford to the Historic Neighborhood Preservation Program which hosted a traveling photography exhibit of Columbus Park. The Loft Artist Association (LAA) has also been a recipient of the grant for numerous years. 

LAA president Lisa Cuscuna said the association uses the funds to sponsor "Draw On," an event where kids meet with artists and draw with them, and Open Studios, where the public is welcomed into the studios at 845 Canal Street. 

"The grant goes to projects that are largely community outreach type projects," stated Cuscuna.  

Cuscuna said the LAA received $4,500 in funds last year but in previous years had received $7,500 and $1,500. 

The city has stayed consistent this year, maintaining the CAPP grant funds at $50,000.  In the 2010-2011 fiscal year, $75,000 was distributed and under the Malloy administration in 2009-2010, $147,000 was distributed.  

Cuscuna said when they received higher amounts in previous years, the funds were also used to put on shows in the LAA Gallery.  She said that LAA needs to apply for more grants to continute to create community events in the South End.  Cuscuna said she hopes to see the city once again provide $75,000 to local organizations. 

Applications and guidelines for the grants are available online.   All applications must be received by August 20, 2011.