40 North/ 88 West
Champaign County Arts, Culture & Entertainment Council
Organizational History
40 North began as a true community effort. Local residents saw a need for an umbrella organization that represented the arts in Champaign County. This group met on a regular basis, holding many discussions on the local arts community. After a year of engaging various members of Champaign County in discussion, the group became very organized and applied for a grant from the Illinois Arts Council to hire a consultant. Cheryl Yuen held many focus groups and talked with people through out the community to determine the need for an arts council. After open discussions, private meetings and weekend retreats, Ms. Yuen gave a report of her findings in June 2001. The general consensus was that the community needed an arts council that truly reflects the arts of Champaign County. There are many artists, artistic venues and organizations that thrive in this area; however, an umbrella organization was in need to facilitate collaborative efforts, inform the public of the local arts community and act as an advocate for local arts, culture and entertainment.
In July, 2002, 40 North received funding, again from the Illinois Arts Council, to hire a graduate intern. With a full-time staff person in place, it was possible to launch the organization. During Illinois Arts Week, 40 North had its official launch celebration. The people from through out the county were represented at the celebration. The event was hugely successful, a perfect start for the organization.
The organization continues to grow in capacity. In February of 2004, 40 North hired a full time managing director, who quickly became the executive director. One year later, in February of 2005, the addition of a part-time position was approved by the board. During the executive director's first year, 40 North significantly increased its operating budget, strengthened its internal structures, developed greater and more diverse relationships with various stakeholders, boosted its public image, and more. The awareness and value of 40 North and Champaign County's art, culture and entertainment continues to gain momentum with remarkable public and private support. The board, fresh from a strategic planning retreat, is enthusiastic and committed to creating a common vision for 40 North and the community.
