From someone who spends every day in the dealing with grants and contracts I would just like to add that not only is it an excellent idea to seek collaborations with such groups, but it also makes for a much stronger proposal. Proposals that address the real needs of the community are much more likely to get funded. Just something to think about when trying to figure out ways to support your museums outreach ideas. Laura Mahoney Office of Sponsored Projects Smithsonian Institution [log in to unmask] >>> Farar P. Elliott <[log in to unmask]> 03/07/97 11:04am >>> As I have worked in the social services I have seen how much easier it is to collaborate on projects (read: funding) that addresses the needs of poor people and people of color when I am in regular contact looking for grants with these same people. So, might I suggest to museums that want to be part of the life of the communities they are surrounded by, try looking for funding as if you were as important to the well-being of that community as another police officer or an emergency foodbank or a rape crisis center. Because, of course, you are. Once you begin to collaborate with the children's program at the domestic violence shelter and come to meetings on welfare reform and helped, you may find you have learned more about the different communities you serve than you thought. Farar Elliott Director Women's Rape Crisis Center Burlington, VT [log in to unmask]