Since its inception in 2000, The Strand Center for the Arts has played a vital role in the development of the arts. The Strand Center has strived to collaborate with the community and strengthen the economics of the North Country. The Decentralization Regrant program, through the New York State Council on the Arts, has provided tens of thousands of dollars in support and recognition of community-based arts program for our underserved rural region in Clinton and northern Franklin counties for many years. As of 2013, The Strand Center will be serving Essex County and all of Franklin County. In addition, the Decentralization Regrant program is now the administering arm of Arts Education grants (formerly LCB grants) for artists to work with children and teachers in public schools in all three counties.

The Strand Center for the Arts has been a long-time partner with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, providing a variety of scholarships for area youth to participate in ArtQuest programming, Theatre for Youth and other programs benefiting young students. Most recently, The Strand Center has formed a partnership with the United Way, allowing it to further serve disadvantaged populations and those falling victim to difficult economic times.