September 13, 2007

Non-profits mean big bucks to locals
Study shows that arts and culture groups mean $69 million in one year to Fullerton’s economy.
By BARBARA GIASONE STAFF WRITER

Non-profit arts and culture groups and their audiences pumped $69 million into the city’s economy in 2005, based on a report released Sunday.

The findings are part of an Arts & Economic Prosperity study conducted by the Americans for the Arts in 156 cities and counties across the nation.

Fullerton and Laguna Beach were the only Orange County cities to participate, with Laguna registering $54 million in arts expenditures.

In addition, spending in Fullerton was shown to support 1,349 full-time jobs, generate $28 million in household income to local residents and $4.14 million income to local and state governments. “Many times, people see the arts as complacent, but in Fullerton, the arts make a significant impact,” said Councilwoman Sharon Quirk.

Locally, data was collected from 21 nonprofit arts and culture organizations that provided detailed budget information.

Participating organizations included groups at Cal State Fullerton, Children’s Repertory Theater, Fullerton Railway Plaza Association and the Muckenthaler Cultural Center.

Data was also collected from 922 event attendees during 2006.

The Fullerton organizations that participated showed a total attendance of 351,411. And these attendees spent a total $9 million excluding the cost of the event admission.

Non-Fullerton residents spent 36 percent more than local attendees per person with higher spending on lodging, meals and transportation.

Arts Committee Chairwoman Susan Petrella added: “The arts mean business, the arts mean community and the arts mean success.”