The Johnston County Arts Council was recently awarded a $3,000 grant from Target for the 2008-09 Artists-in-the-Schools program year. In a gesture of continued commitment to the Artists-in-the-Schools program, Target has contributed $18,000 since 2002. Recognizing their proximity to Johnston County, Target at White Oak Crossing feels strongly about giving back to the community where it does business. “We are proud to partner with organizations like the Johnston County Arts Council to inspire education, make the arts affordable and accessible, and foster safe families and communities nationwide,” says Laysha Ward, Vice President of Community Relations.

This grant is part of ongoing efforts by Target to strengthen families and communities throughout the country. Since opening its doors, Target has given 5 percent of its income to organizations that support education, the arts, social services and volunteerism. Today that translates to more than $3 million every week

Available for all students grades K–12 at each of Johnston County’s 41 public schools, the Artists-in-the-Schools program focuses on using the arts as a tool for learning and cultural enrichment. Supported by a strong community partnership between JCAC and the Johnston County Schools (JCS), over $1,000,000 has been raised since the program’s start in 1999. Through public, private, corporate, and individual support, the Artists-in-the-Schools is able to utilize the arts to reinforce and expand basic curriculum through exposure to performances, hands-on workshops, and residencies with professional artists.

Johnston County Arts Council Founded in 1972, Johnston County Arts Council (JCAC) is a private, non-profit granting and services organization dedicated to providing quality arts opportunities for all Johnston County residents. As a service to the 152,000 residents of Johnston County, the Arts Council funds arts programs and projects throughout the county, improves the quality of education for over 31,000 students in our schools through the Artists-in-the-Schools program, promotes local artists and arts activities available to the public, provides key resources like the local artist database, community arts calendar and Arts Council website and serves as a key resource in making Johnston County a great place to live, work and raise a family.

About Target Minneapolis-based Target serves guests at more than 1,600 stores in 47 states nationwide by delivering today’s best retail trends at affordable prices. Target is committed to providing guests with great design through innovative products, in-store experiences and community partnerships. Whether visiting a Target store or shopping online at Target.com, guests enjoy a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to thousands of unique and highly differentiated items. Target (NYSE:TGT) gives more than $3 million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs.

Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs.

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