CAPITALIZING ON CAPABILITIES: SUSTAINING ARTS ORGANIZATIONS IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES

The question driving this research is what makes arts programming in underserved communities in a Washington, DC sustainable. In turn, the research aims to strengthen the dialogue between similar nonprofits, programs, and governmental agencies to create ,,viable communities‟ in which every individual can thrive and succeed. This research specifically looks at how these communities are create through arts programming in public housing and traditionally underserved communities. It includes an extensive literature review on collaboration and partnership and volunteer engagement and retention; dozens of in-depth interviews; and a volunteer experiment. This exploration will lead to more complete understanding of partnerships, the role of community and volunteer engagement in creating longevity and sustainability for arts organizations serving low income communities.