Lisa Simmons, Program Manager
Recognizing the Local Cultural Council Program and the extraordinary members fueling its success
This year marks an exciting milestone — the Local Cultural Council (LCC) Program turns 45! That’s 45 inspirational years of bringing arts, culture, community-building, and joy to cities and towns across Massachusetts.
Since its inception, the LCC Program has been powered by more than 17,178* volunteers who have worked tirelessly to ensure arts and culture is accessible and celebrated in their communities.
Mass Cultural Council has proudly invested more than $162.5M** in state funding to the LCC Program. This extensive grassroots system of public support for community cultural programs is unmatched anywhere else in the United States.
The state’s LCCs – representing all 351 cities and towns – have awarded more than 165,208*** grants to support projects in the arts, humanities, and sciences.
As Mass Cultural Council’s LCC Program Manager for the past eight years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of witnessing the dedication and impact of these volunteers’ work — and I continue to be in awe.
There is a legacy of creativity and community in the LCC Program. From small towns to bustling cities, LCCs have made a lasting difference. A few recent examples of their amazing work include funding programs such as:
- Pepperell’s Multi-Panel Mural, a vibrant public art project that honors the natural beauty and Indigenous history of the Nissitissit Falls area
- Young Adult Autism Art Workshops, a weekly program in Somerset creating space for artistic expression, connection, and confidence-building
- The Fusion Fest, a celebration of Salem’s historic and contemporary immigrant communities, bringing people together through music, dance, food, and storytelling
- The M.U.S.E. Fest (Multicultural Unity Shrewsbury Experience), highlighting Shrewsbury’s diverse heritages with joyful performances and cultural traditions
Members’ work doesn’t stop at grant-making and hosting events. LCCs like New Marlborough are stepping up in big ways — rallying community support and raising additional funds to expand arts and culture access in their regions.
LCC’s do all of this — and more — often with limited resources and boundless heart. Each of them is punching above their weight to champion the arts, and their work truly makes Massachusetts a more vibrant, connected, and inspired place to live.
Here’s to LCC members!
As we celebrate this 45-year milestone, we want to thank them. Their dedication fuels this program’s success and keeps the arts alive in every corner of the Commonwealth. Whether they’re reviewing grants, promoting events, fundraising, or supporting local artists, they’re making a difference — every single day.
Let’s celebrate this moment together and look ahead to the next 45 years of joy and community.
We are highlighting LCC members throughout the year, and invite them to share a nano interview with us!
Read More Posts Marking the LCCs’ 45th Anniversary
* According to records from FY2001-FY2025
** According to records from FY1981-FY2025
***According to records from FY1998-FY2025