To nurture excellence and diversity to improve the social fabric and quality of life for Savannah's citizens, regardless of income, education, disabilities, or ethnicity; and to provide leadership in fostering programs that educate and expose citizens to a rich and diverse range of cultural expressions, to support artistic programs that celebrate creativity, create educational opportunities, encourage economic growth and enhance Savannah's reputation as a cultural destination.

The Department of Cultural Affairs is comprised of 10 staff members and a 20 member Cultural Affairs Commission. The commission, appointed by the Mayor and Aldermen, meets quarterly to review programming and recommend purchases of cultural services from eligible arts organizations. Services are categorized according to the following initiatives: Access & Education, Festivals and Cultural Tourism. Functions of the Department of Cultural Affairs' staff include: marketing services; technical assistance to cultural organizations; in-house production of programs for youth, theatrical productions, festivals and visual arts classes; and oversight of the contracts for cultural services with outside organizations.