Hubbardston Cultural Council Reviews Roles and Plans Community Survey for 2025

The Hubbardston Cultural Council convened on August 21, 2025, to outline plans for the upcoming 2026 program year, focusing on community engagement and grant management. The meeting, held at the senior center, reaffirmed the leadership roles within the council, with the chair and treasurer continuing in their positions, while the secretary will also manage publicity efforts.

A significant topic of discussion was the council's commitment to conducting a community survey to gauge local interests and needs. The council plans to utilize electronic methods for outreach, including potential Facebook campaigns to enhance visibility and engagement. This year’s survey will largely mirror last year’s, with adjustments made based on previous feedback. The council aims to finalize the survey details and ensure it is distributed effectively, with members agreeing to collaborate on the communication strategy.

Updates on current grantees highlighted the council's ongoing support for local programs. The Hubbardston Council on Aging successfully hosted workshops and an art show, while other events, such as a performance by a local juggler and educational activities, are in various stages of completion. The council noted the importance of ensuring that funded events properly acknowledge the Cultural Council's contributions, emphasizing the need for better visibility of their support at community events.

Financially, the council reported a carryover of funds from the previous year, which will be allocated to upcoming projects. The members discussed strategies for managing these funds effectively, including freezing administrative expenses to simplify the rollover process for the next fiscal year.

As the council prepares for the new program year, their focus remains on fostering community involvement and ensuring that local cultural initiatives receive the necessary support to thrive. The next steps include finalizing the survey and continuing to monitor the progress of funded projects, reinforcing the council's commitment to enhancing cultural opportunities in Hubbardston.