Civic & Community Impact
A Chattanooga Community PAC can be a civic anchor that builds safer, more connected neighborhoods. Communities with strong cultural participation see 18% lower crime, 10% higher voter turnout, and residents are twice as likely to volunteer. With 89% of attendees saying the arts inspire community pride, the PAC can strengthen Chattanooga’s safety, belonging, and civic fabric.
NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETY: Studies find that low-income neighborhoods with high cultural participation had 18% fewer serious crimes. A PAC can extend those benefits year-round through performances by local artists, educational and participatory programming, and cultural events that boost visibility and vibrancy.
YOUTH CRIME PREVENTION: The U.S. Office of Juvenile Justice identifies arts programs as interventions for justice-involved and at-risk youth, with outcomes in reduced problem behaviors, improved self-esteem, and social skills. Through after-school programming, teen tech labs, and summer intensives, the PAC can keep youth engaged and off the streets.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT: Counties with more nonprofit arts see 10% higher voter turnout. Studies across 26 US counties prove access to the arts results in deeper civic engagement: people feel more connected to their communities, volunteer more, and invest more in their communities.
PUBLIC HEALTH & WELL-BEING: Multiple global studies confirm arts engagement improves mental health, resilience, and belonging.
EDUCATION & YOUTH IMPACT: Students who attend live theatre (vs. film) show greater knowledge retention, empathy, and tolerance. PAC field trips and after-school programming can shape curious, empathetic young citizens.
BUSINESS & SAFE STREETS: In Cleveland’s Playhouse Square, 1.3M attendees generated $136M in off-site spending in one year. A Chattanooga PAC can deliver similar gains while activating safer, busier downtown streets.
CIVIC HUB & VOLUNTEERISM: Attending live performances increases volunteering by 25%. The PAC can be a trusted civic gathering place, connecting residents to service, dialogue, and shared purpose.