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Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund awards grants to local organizations

The Salt River Arts Society has received $50,000 in grant funding from the Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund toward restoration of the front of the historic Ford Theatre. Pictured here is a rendering of the proposed design for the facade, which reflects the 1930’s era of the theater’s construction. COURTESY IMAGE

 

The Star Valley Arts Council and the Salt River Arts Society have each been awarded significant grant money by The Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund (WCTF).  These nonprofits, local to Star Valley, are two of 35 art organizations that were collectively awarded over $67o,ooo during the WCTF grant review process completed earlier this month. WCTF grant funds are awarded in support of cultural and heritage projects throughout the state.

According to a press release issued by WCTF, all grant money “supports a diverse range of initiatives, including historic preservation efforts, public art installations, performing arts programming, interpretive signage, music festivals, museum projects, and archaeological research.”

“These projects represent the rich cultural heritage and creative spirit found across Wyoming,” said Renée Bovée, WCTF program coordinator. “From restoring historic buildings to hosting community concerts, this funding helps strengthen cultural access and preservation statewide.”

The Star Valley Arts Council (SVAC)  received $10,530 for their 2025–26 season Arts Programming, while the Salt River Arts Society (SRAS) received $50,000 toward the construction of a façade for the Ford Theatre on Afton’s Main Street.  Renderings of the proposed façade depict designs that represent the theater’s construction era of 90 years ago.

“We are extremely lucky this year to have received a fully funded grant from the Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund to help fund two painting workshops, our very popular Children’s Theatre Camp, and our ongoing efforts to bring the BYU Young Ambassadors to Star Valley High School for a performance this winter,” said SVAC Executive Director, Lxi Weber. “The grant application process included completion of three pages of narrative explaining the projects we are hoping to fund, our detailed marketing plan for those events, and an explanation of how the funds would be used.  In addition to the narrative, we needed to submit multiple letters of support, as well as information about each of our board members.”

SRAS has received grant money from the WCTF in the past, which was used to replace the roof and some plumbing in the Ford Theatre, as well as art programs and projects.

“We are extremely grateful for aid from the WCTF as we tackle these projects that are quite expensive,” said Jaclyn Lechner, representing the SRAS. “With continued support from grants, donations, and volunteers, we are looking forward to fully restoring the Ford Theatre.”

Both local organizations devote significant effort to providing and promoting art exposure and education to residents and guests in Star Valley.

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