The four counties of the western Massachusetts region are unique for their rich and diverse cultural resources. The Western Massachusetts Arts Alliance seeks to build on this strength and contribute to the cultural, social, and economic vitality of the region through collaboration between the University of Massachusetts and the region of which it is a part.

Mission:

The Western Massachusetts Arts Alliance fosters community-based arts activity through building relationships and collaborations among diverse cultural organizations, artists, educators, and community groups.

The Alliance fulfills its mission through services that provide:

• Information clearinghouse
  
• Communication and networking among cultural organizations, artists, community groups, area colleges and the University.
• Resource identification and cultivation
• Professional development training
• Research and evaluation
  

Operating Principles:

The Alliance operates through shared leadership and collaboration. Alliance planning and programs are overseen by a steering committee selected by University and community arts organizations who responded to an invitation to explore regional collaboration. Several fiscal agents in the community administer its varied programs.