History

In 1999 a group of enthusiastic arts supporters met to discuss the formation of an arts council.  With some seed money from the City of Orillia and support from the Ministry of Culture and Recreation, public consultations were held to flesh out the concept of an umbrella organization to support the arts in Orillia. Within a year the Orillia & District Arts Council (ODAC) was formed.

From the outset ODAC’s mission was to enhance and promote the arts. During its first few years, ODAC hosted several public forums for its members and surrounding arts councils on topics ranging from Board governance to funding opportunities.

One of ODAC’s primary goals was the creation of a downtown storefront office to support arts organizations and individual members. The office was also seen as an easily accessible point of contact and promotional venue for the public. In partnership with the Mariposa Folk Foundation, successful funding applications to Human Resources Development Canada and the Trillium Foundation resulted in the opening of “Spotlight…on the arts” at 23 Peter Street South, Orillia. The office provided clerical support as well as meeting, gallery and storage space for a growing number of members.  Staff also created a website with an events calendar and regular electronic newsletters.

ODAC achieved incorporation as a not-for-profit organization on April 12th, 2005, and was granted charitable status the following year.  In 2006 the ODAC Board of Directors embarked upon a comprehensive strategic planning process including an extensive community consultation.  The plan, which was shared at its first Annual General Meeting in October 2006, shapes the art council’s short- and long-term goals.

In 2008 ODAC moved to 37 Mississaga St W., Orillia, under a rental agreement in the new Mariposa Folk Foundation office. The location affords improved gallery and workshop space.  In response to the identified needs of members and the public, staffing was changed from a part-time executive director position to a full-time administrator. Looking forward within 2010, ODAC board members, staff and volunteers are excited about our new website, expanded programming, and continued focus on enhancing and promoting the arts within and around Orillia.