You and your local Arts Council

**Corran** · 3-Mar-2019, 11:15

Thank you Greg. You bring up an important consideration with regard to sales and connections for local artists vs. outreach.

Apparently a previous organization that fell apart was troubled with this very question. Unfortunately it seemed to be an either/or situation. Personally I am envisioning an equal parts situation, because we need both locally. I am hoping to strike a balance.

Bruce, thanks, I am reading a lot of literature about the 501c3 process. Recently the IRS released a 1023 EZ form that I am hoping proves easier. That is this week's goal...

**John Olsen** · 3-Mar-2019, 16:08

Originally Posted by Corran

Thank you Greg. You bring up an important consideration with regard to sales and connections for local artists vs. outreach.

Bruce, thanks, I am reading a lot of literature about the 501c3 process. Recently the IRS released a 1023 EZ form that I am hoping proves easier. That is this week's goal...

As for 501c3, after a lot of misunderstandings our artist co-op finally figured out that we couldn't qualify as a 501c3 because our purpose was to provide a selling platform for artists. While we were a "nonprofit" we didn't have a significant role in education or charity. Unfortunately, this misunderstanding went on for several years with the Board failing to file appropriate tax returns. When I became treasurer the long-term error was really a horrifying realization for me. Study those rules carefully.