(BPT) – No matter where you live, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the culture of diverse communities, if you know where to look. To show your support for multicultural artisans, performers and businesses, here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Check out diverse artists in your neighborhood — and online

Do an internet search for art galleries in your area that showcase artists of color, then go and take a look at the work these artists are creating. You can also search for art fairs and festivals nearby that showcase multicultural artists and crafters that you can patronize. These kinds of events make for a great family outing, and you can usually find beautiful art, handcrafted gifts and home decor items.

Many websites that sell artisan crafts will also highlight their minority-owned shops. Search the site or contact them to ask where you can find these artists to view their amazing creations.

2. Support arts programs for kids

Supporting local schools as well as extracurricular programs that provide all kids with opportunities to express themselves and explore their own heritage will have a positive impact on the future of art and culture in your community.

You can help by volunteering, donating or simply being there as an advocate — attending events and applauding the efforts of kids and their educators.

3. Pay attention to companies that actively celebrate minority-owned businesses and diverse cultures

Companies large and small are increasingly aware that consumers today want to support causes they believe in, as well as those that encourage artistic and cultural expression from people of color. This awareness is inspiring all kinds of initiatives to encourage the work of artists from diverse backgrounds.

For example, Control™ Prepaid Mastercard from Netspend found an exciting way to promote artistic expressions by partnering with diverse artists who have created unique art and are using the art on their prepaid cards. These artists are selected for not only the outstanding artistic quality of their work, but also their positive contributions to their cultures and communities. You can celebrate diversity in art by choosing a design from one of their available Artist Series card designs – and you’ll have a work of art in your wallet.

For anyone looking for a financial tool that can help you to take control of your money, the Control Card is not only designed with its members’ needs in mind, but also their goals.

You can order an Artist Series card at MyControlCard.com.

4. Buy from minority-owned businesses

More companies than ever before are highlighting entrepreneurs of color, making it easier to find products that are created by multicultural entrepreneurs. Next time you shop, search for minority-owned businesses online, or look for categories like multicultural products from major retailers’ websites.

For example, you can find minority-owned businesses to support by visiting the Control Card website at MyControlCard.com/buy-black/.

5. Champion ethnic restaurants

Another great way to tap into the culture of your own heritage — or others — is to visit local restaurants that introduce you to foods and traditions from myriad cultural backgrounds. Some of these venues also host music performances or art exhibitions that add to the richness of the experience dining there. Supporting minority-owned and ethnic restaurants also helps all of the people in their surrounding communities.

Encouraging and participating in artistic and cultural events in your area, plus buying from minority-owned businesses, shows your support, celebrating these efforts and helping these artists and businesses grow for years to come.

Courtesy of BrandPoint