Who we are
Rooted in history. Building what's next.
NS Unite is a community-led non-profit dedicated to the cultural life of the North Summit area.
Our Story
Begun around a kitchen table.
In 2019, a small group of neighbors gathered to ask a question: what would it look like to build a place where the stories of our elders, the energy of our youth, and the talent of our artists could all live in one community?
That conversation became NS Unite. Today we run year-round programming in the arts, partner with local schools and businesses, and steward a growing archive of regional history.
Our Values
What guides us.
Heritage with hands
We honor where we came from while making something new together.
Every voice
Our programs are intentionally inclusive, multigenerational, and free to attend whenever possible.
Local first
We invest in artists, businesses, and storytellers from right here in North Summit.
Milestones
A short timeline.
- 2019
NS Unite founded by a circle of local artists and elders.
- 2021
Launched the inaugural Culture Fest celebrating regional heritage.
- 2023
Opened the Alton Cultural Center as a community arts hub.
- 2025
Reached 10,000 community members served through programming.
Strategic Framework · Adopted 2024
Linking our past to our future.
Our four strategic priorities guide how we serve Wanship, Hoytsville, Coalville, Chalk Creek, Upton, Echo, and Henefer over the next five years.
Championing Community Voices
Host community conversations, preserve North Summit's stories, and rally residents around a shared vision for the region's future.
Events & Programming
Lead 1–2 signature events each year and expand locally driven music, dance, art, and theatrical offerings across our towns.
Venues & Spaces
Establish a physical home for NS Unite, help create a youth and community theater, and support gathering places throughout North Summit.
Organizational Growth
Build a diverse funding pipeline, grow our volunteer base, hire staff, and transition from a working board to a governing board.