HomeMy WebLinkAboutNEW Dragon Boat _Program Festival ARPA Fund ProposalNEW Dragon Boat /Program Festival ARPA Fund Proposal
The N.E.W.Dragon Boat Program is an ambitious initiative designed to significantly
expand and enhance the annual Dragon Boat Festival in Oshkosh,Wisconsin,while
establishing a robust local dragon boat program that spans both recreational and
competitive spheres.This program is poised to leverage administrative support,
infrastructure development,and marketing efforts to create a vibrant,
community-centered sporting event that aligns with broader economic,social,and
cultural objectives.
Program Overview and Need
At the heart of this initiative lies the goal to fulfill the City of Oshkosh's Diversity,Equity,
and Inclusion (DEI)Strategic Plan.The N.E.W.Dragon Boat Festival originated from a
city ordinance aimed at fostering multicultural events to educate and celebrate diversity.
By doing so,the festival not only adheres to its foundational mission but also actively
contributes to the community's understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Furthermore,the festival has actively sought community input to ensure it resonates
with and serves the interests of the local population effectively.
In 2023,the festival drew teams and spectators from across the region,significantly
boosting local tourism and providing a platform for small businesses,including those
owned by women,veterans,and marginalized groups,to gain visibility.The proposed
expansion aims to double participation by being the only all season long dragonboat
program in WI,thereby amplifying the economic impact on Oshkosh.
Dragon boat racing,by its nature,fosters a strong sense of community and teamwork.
Establishing a dragon boat club will offer residents the opportunity to join a team,
practice regularly,and compete,further strengthening communal bonds.By providing
creative team-building programs,local cooperation may benefit from an increase of
workforce retention rate.
The initiative also prioritizes community health and wellness.Dragon boat racing is an
inclusive sport,welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.It has been particularly
beneficial for cancer survivors,veterans,and other groups,offering a form of physical
activity that promotes resilience and wellness.
Collaboration and Unique Offering
The program is unique in Northeast Wisconsin,filling a gap in the recreational
landscape.Collaborations with the City of Oshkosh,Discover Oshkosh,the YMCA,the
Oshkosh Area School District,local corporations,small businesses and non-profit
organizations are critical to its success,enabling a wide-reaching impact that extends
beyond the festival itself.
Funding Utilization
The request for ARPA funds is specific and targeted,focusing on the start up of the
program of acquisition of essential equipment,hiring key personnel,and covering
marketing and setup expenses.This investment is expected to benefit the city's
economy by attracting more participants and spectators,enhance local businesses'
visibility,and foster a sense of community pride and connection.
Beneficiaries
The program's beneficiaries are wide-ranging:
●The City of Oshkosh will see enhanced economic activity and community
engagement.
●Local Businesses will benefit from increased tourism and the opportunity to
reach a broader audience.
●The Oshkosh Community at large will enjoy enhanced recreational opportunities
and the chance to celebrate diversity and inclusion.
●Cultural Affinity Groups and participants will experience a platform for cultural
exchange and understanding,furthering the city's DEI objectives.
●Employers and Employees participating in the program will enjoy team-building
and wellness benefits.
Prevention of Benefit Duplication
This will be the only dragon boat program of its kind in Wisconsin.It fills a niche in the
community's recreational offerings,providing a new avenue for physical activity,team
building,and cultural celebration.
Impact and Sustainability
The program aims to serve 5,000 individuals,doubling its reach and impact.It also
plans to establish club teams,corporate team-building workshops,veteran and youth
programs.The proposal outlines a comprehensive strategy for fiscal oversight and the
segregation of ARPA funds to ensure transparency,accountability,and effective use of
resources.
Adjustments for Partial Funding
Should the grant request not be fully funded,the program is prepared to make
adjustments,such as reducing the number of boats purchased,using public storage and
scaling back marketing efforts,to still deliver significant value to the community.
Project Budget and Outcomes
The project budget is meticulously planned,with ARPA dollars earmarked for specific,
impactful uses by December 31,2024.The initiative's ambitious goals,strategic
planning,and broad community support position it as a transformative project for
Oshkosh,promising to deliver substantial economic,social,and cultural benefits.This
expansion of the Dragon Boat Festival and the establishment of a permanent dragon
boat program represent a forward-thinking investment in the community's health,
wellbeing,and unity.