Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

Last year, Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed $32 million in arts and culture grants that had been approved by the Florida Legislature. This year, the state’s $115.5 billion budget includes $18.3 million in arts and culture grants, but only a handful of Southwest Florida arts organizations qualified for a share of that money. For the second year in a row, 14 Lee county arts organizations were denied state funding, including the Alliance for the Arts and Florida Repertory Theatre. Each of Lee’s arts organizations is employing a medley of measures to make up for the loss of state grants.

The $115.5 billion budget signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis includes more than $18 million for 184 arts organizations. Most Southwest Florida arts and culture organizations remain on the outside looking in.

Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel reopened to the public on February 1st after Hurricane Ian shut the island down for months. Now, alongside their popular shell displays, is another unique and interactive exhibit.

Southwest Florida has a plethora of opportunities to volunteer with environmental attractions, whether it be for a retiree with lots of time and a bunch of skills to offer or a high schooler with little time and experience but with enthusiasm to donate some time during summer break.