ACJC Named Johnson County’s Local Arts Agency
The Arts Council of Johnson County (ACJC) is honored to announce that we have been officially designated as the Local Arts Agency (LAA) for Johnson County, Kansas. This recognition comes following the Board of County Commissioners’ resolution passed on July 24, 2025, affirming our leadership in supporting and advancing the arts throughout our region.
What Is a Local Arts Agency?
Local Arts Agencies exist to serve their communities by promoting, supporting, and developing access to the arts. They come in many forms—government departments, nonprofit organizations, or hybrid models—and operate at municipal, county, regional, and tribal levels. Importantly, LAAs aren’t limited to a single entity per area; they often coexist and collaborate, reflecting the unique cultural needs of different communities within a shared geography.
Nationwide, LAAs play a vital role in:
- Expanding creative opportunities-
- Supporting individual artists and cultural organizations
- Shaping policies that elevate the arts
- Strengthening community identity and economic development through cultural investment
ACJC has long acted as a connector and advocate for the arts in Johnson County. This new designation formally recognizes the work we’ve been doing and allows us to do even more.
Why This Designation Matters
Being named an official LAA amplifies ACJC’s ability to:
- Pursue public and private arts funding
- Develop partnerships across sectors—government, education, nonprofits, and business
- Broaden access to programs that serve youth, veterans, and underserved communities
- Contribute to long-term cultural planning and economic vitality
It also places ACJC within a national network of LAAs, opening the door to expanded resources, visibility, and best practices.
Looking Ahead
This designation marks a significant step forward, not just for ACJC, but for the broader arts ecosystem in Johnson County. As we continue working with partners across neighborhoods, cities, and institutions, we remain committed to fostering creativity, inclusion, and innovation through the arts.