Help Us Through the Winter

The Calvary Center for Culture and Community is a unique story that has become a model for similar communities around the country. Our grand Victorian church building was once considered one of the most at-risk properties in Philadelphia, and now it is home to four faith communities, five major arts organizations, and 15 non-profits. But we are facing a new challenge, and need your help to keep our doors open.

Like many organizations, we've been hard hit by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We're proud that we did not turn away any group who was unable to pay rental fees during the past two years. But as government assistance has dried up and it is still unsafe for many large community events, we have drained all of our spare resources.

We stand at the precipice of a major change. Over the past year, we have secured over $700,000 in grant funding for major renovations, and are preparing to attract more. This money will let us make many necessary structural repairs to the building, and upgrades that will enhance safety and enjoyment for everyone who uses it- including HVAC upgrades to provide necessary air filtration, new ADA bathrooms, and a brand new theatre space.

Unfortunately, if we can't keep our bills paid this winter, we will lose this incredible opportunity. Electric and water bills regularly run over $5,000 a month. While our user fees just cover our staff costs, we have nothing left to support the many other needs of the building. If we can't raise the money to keep the bills paid, we'll have to forfeit the renovation grants and close our doors for good. Our renovation grants will cover construction costs, but they won't support these necessary everyday bills.

The Calvary Center was formed in 1999 to save this building from being sold and demolished. 23 years ago, our neighbors came together and said they wanted to see the historic Calvary Church building remain on the corner of 48th and Baltimore, with its original congregation intact. They also wanted to see the building used to bring the arts to the neighborhood, and to make space for neighbors to provide community services and celebrate milestones together. We've made that dream come true, and watched the neighborhood revitalize around us.

In the past 20 years, Baltimore Avenue has become a destination in the city, supporting dozens of independent shops and restaurants through a vibrant, diverse residential community. Members of CCCC congregations have bought houses and opened businesses in the neighborhood. Because residents can come to arts and cultural performances in the building, they also visit local restaurants for a night out that doesn't require a trip to Center City. We've provided millions of dollars of community value over the years, but we stand at risk to lose it all.

If you've been lucky enough to experience what the Calvary Center has to offer, you know how special this place is. If you haven't had the chance to visit us yet, we hope to welcome you soon! Please help us hold on until the spring, when a brighter future is coming our way.