About Us

Mission

The mission of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) is to enrich Chicago’s artistic vitality and cultural vibrancy. To support this overarching mission, the Cultural Grants Program’s goal is simple: to serve as a catalyst to foster a robust, healthy arts community where artists, nonprofit arts and culture organizations and creative industries thrive. Designed to reach artists, creatives, and nonprofit arts and culture organizations across Chicago, DCASE Cultural Grants provide operating funds and project support for nonprofits and project specific funding for individual artists.

Staff Information

Meida McNeal, Deputy Commissioner, Cultural Grants and Resources

Melanie Wang, Program Director, Cultural Grants

Julie Partynski, Grants Administrator

Meghan Beals, Grants Coordinator

Melissa Thomfohrda, Grants Coordinator

Carol Crosby, Grants Coordinator