The CHArt Society (Culture, Heritage & Art) was formed in 2010. Initially, the members of the Society were involved in the planning and staging of Maitland's Launch Day, a commemoration of the launch of the ship W. D. Lawrence in 1874.

Since then, the Society has taken on a larger role in the life of the community of Maitland and of the larger Noel Shore and East Hants areas. CHArt has staged a number of theatrical productions, hosted concerts, and many other events.

In 2017, CHArt became a registered Canadian charity, enabling the Society to take possession of the former United Church and Hall in Maitland, for use as a community centre.