Proposals for community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs due Oct. 16

The Millis Cultural Council has set an October 16 deadline for organizations, schools and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community using the online application form.  The form for the FY24 grant cycle will be available on the Mass Cultural Council website starting September 1. Application forms and more information about the online application are available at www.mass-culture.org. 

Please also check the Millis Cultural Council Facebook page for more details and updates.

The mission of the Millis Cultural Council is to promote excellence, access, and diversity in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences in order to enhance the quality of life in our community. The MCC strives to achieve these goals through the funding of local arts projects and programs with grants, and by hosting special events in Millis that are free and open to the public to benefit the Millis community.  Special priority is given to new applicants from the town of Millis, so anyone considering a community project that would fit the Cultural Council’s criteria is encouraged to apply.

In 2023, the Millis Cultural Council will distribute over $8,000 in grants. Funded projects in 2023 included artist Amy Adams’ presentation, Painting Venus, a senior mural project at Millis Middle/High School, a Celtic Celebration performance, a Charles River Chorale concert, a concert by the Charles River Sinfonietta, a senior screen-printing project, the Niagra Coffee Haus 2023 Concert Series, a magic show, a concert by Pamela Means, a paint party by Tatianya Keating and the Town of Millis Summer Concert Series, among others. Find the full list of FY23 awards at https://massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/millis/ . This coming year’s approved grants can support a similar variety of cultural and arts projects and activities in Millis -- including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies or performances in schools, workshops and lectures.  

Decisions about which activities to support are made at the community level by a board of community volunteers appointed by the Millis Select Board. The council is currently seeking new members. To encourage diversity and new volunteers, each member can only serve on the council for a maximum of six years. Visitors are welcome to join in and help plan future events and help decide on funding priorities for the future. The Millis Cultural Council is open to all Millis residents – no artistic talent required!

More information about the annual grant funding and the MCC can be found at www.mass-culture.org and on the Millis town website at www.millis.org under boards and committees. Anyone interested in joining the Millis Cultural Council can download a volunteer form on the town website or email [email protected] for more information.