We have a new name, but we’re not a new organization!

In fact, for over three decades, Spark Newton, previously known as Newton Community Pride, has worked steadily — and often behind the scenes — to enhance the quality of life in Newton with community-building arts and culture programming and beautification projects.

The Origin

Founded in 1989 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit after the City’s tricentennial celebration, Newton Community Pride (NCP) was the brainchild of Linda Plaut, who for three decades energetically and creatively led the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs.

Working in close partnership with the City, NCP helped organize and fund many of the City’s best-loved events–including performances, fairs, summer concerts, the Heartbreak Hill Road Race, the Halloween Window Painting Contest, and the Festival of the Arts. NCP also took on responsibility for planting and maintaining several public gardens, including the stunning garden on the Newton Centre Green and Hyde Playground.

Insert image- Linda Plaut, Dizzy Gillespie, and Mayor Ted Mann at the Newton Tricentennial Celebration, 1988

NCP Expands Mission

NCP entered a new phase in 2020 as the COVID pandemic put a stop to most cultural activity. Recognizing the need to augment the cultural offerings in the City, NCP expanded its mission to include its own arts & culture programming, adding Fall Village Concerts, Winterfest, Black History Month programs, and an annual public art initiative to the list of offerings.

NCP also stepped up to support the wider arts & culture community by launching a micro grant program and acting as “fiscal sponsor” to other organizations that bring creative experiences to Newton. And thanks to the generosity of sculptor Nancy Schön, NCP started an annual arts scholarship for graduating high school seniors.

A New Name, A New Era

While our mission and values remain unchanged—delivering free, accessible programming for all—our new name marks an exciting new chapter. With the launch of Spark Newton, we’re shining a light on how our work sparks creativity, strengthens community, and fuels the joy and vitality which makes Newton a great place to live, work, and visit.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our events soon!