After several years of applying on multiple platforms with various organizations, I am so EXCITED to finally have been awarded my first grant. The Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County, MD provided me with a $3,500 grant to help me develop and print 1,000 copies of my book I Am More Than My Hair: Bald and Beautiful Me, a social-change coffee table book that tells the stories and celebrates the beauty of girls and women who have lost their hair due to medical conditions.
Although the many rejection letters I’ve received was disappointing, I must admit, I was unprepared for a grant before this. After comparing my previous applications to the one I was awarded, there’s no mistaking the growth between then and now.
Looking at my old applicators I wouldn’t have granted myself an award either. Don’t get me wrong, the art is beautiful, but the execution of it wasn’t planned out as I’ve organized it to be now.
Also, recently being selected as an art panelist, for another arts & humanities council, allowed me to view applications from the eyes of a judge. And of course I was able to give back to the community. For my next round of grant applications I will fully prepared.
With all of the excitement and appreciation inside of me, I’ve also had to recognize that I’ll need to come up with an additional $25, 870 of my $29, 370 budget, to complete both the book and documentary. Yes it’s that much!
For this reason I decided to apply for Fiscal Sponsorship (it’s another application process that has to be approved) and will launch a Crowdfunding campaign in January 2017.
I will send the details and status as I get closer to the dates. In the meantime, know that I’ve been working like a mad woman…and learning so much in the process. Thank you for your support and encouraging emails along the way!
I’m still looking for participants for I Am More Than My Hair. Know anyone? Let’s connect!
Alyscia Cunningham 