With the Olympic Games approaching in 2028, stories about American sports are the focus of books selected for the 2027-2028 National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Big Read program. Applications are now open for grant funding.
"The arts and sports are both powerful expressions of our culture," said Mary Anne Carter, NEA Chairman. "They bring people together, tell our stories, and show us what can be achieves through creativity, determination, and teamwork."
Made possible by the NEA in partnership with Arts Midwest, funding through the program can support community-wide reading initiatives. Awards ranging up to $30,000 can support activities such as book discussions, writing workshops, and more.
With Oklahoma City hosting several official 2028 Olympic Games competitions, Oklahoma organizations are encouraged to look into this opportunity. One of the 18 books selected for this year's program focuses on Oklahoma's Jim Thorpe, considered one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century.
Applications are open through January 12.
