Oh the Opportunities: Working with GDAC

After what seemed like a grueling process of trial and error, many applications, and encouragement from outside forces, I finally snagged an intern position at the Greater Denton Arts Council. Originally I had applied for the Education internship, but then things went a little sideways when the Education Coordinator ended up leaving in July, so when I went in for my interview with GDAC's director, Georgina, I didn't really know what to expect. We had a wonderful conversation and I let her know about the various interests I have and the experience that I have gained at UNT and in outside work, relating it all to what might be beneficial to a non-profit arts organization. This interview was a few weeks before the new Education Coordinator, Christine, was hired on, so my position was a little play-it-by-the-ear. 

When I say play-it-by-ear, I mean that I do not have just one particular set of responsibilities, rather I and another intern will be used in various sections of organization, including Education and Social Media. Although I was hoping to be just and Education intern, I think that this opportunity to dip my toes in different avenues will not only help grow my current skillset, but will also put more tools in my toolbox when it comes to working within a non-profit and see the many different hats everyone wears. From my standpoint, I will be able to observe the innerworkings of the organization and help contribute to the conversation with new and fresh ideas as well as provide my assistance where and when needed. 


On the social media aspect, the first big campaign that I have participated in is North Texas Giving Day. This once-a-year special event is a priority in helping to raise funds for not only our facility, but also other non-profits and businesses throughout North Texas. I was able to help create social media ads to help reach out the community to promote GDAC's mission, help with the planning process of the booth and what craft we would be facilitating (make & take fans), creating examples of the craft, as well as participating at the actual event on September 19 on the Square in Denton. We had a good turn out - kids, families, and even some adults were super into creating their own fans. We supplied markers, colored and textured tapes, different types of papers with designs, images, and text, and three examples of different fans everyone could make. Seeing each unique creation come to life was very rewarding; from the determined kindergartners to the enthused adults, each worked hard to create a work of art they were proud of. 

Other social media ventures we are working on are promoting the Arts After School Program, Family Programs, and other events taking place at the Patterson-Appleton Art Center. Along with assisting in planning social media content, we are also assisting Christine and Jenny, the exhibitions coordinator, with researching and fundraising for GDAC. Currently we are working on fundraising for our first Family Program in October. 

I am so excited to stretch my muscles in the realm of social media, photography and design, and marketing, and to couple that with the skills I've learned through the Museum Education program pretty simultaneously. We begin the Arts After School program on October 9, and hopefully we will have a good turn out for the class. We have been planning some fun stuff that we are looking forward to, and are so excited to share it with Denton's students. Along with another intern, I will be assisting Christine in the class, facilitating lessons, and helping kids grow a love and appreciation for crafting (and a little bit of history too :) ).