The LGBT Center of Central PA soon will move into this building on N. Front Street in Harrisburg.
After several years in a temporary location, the LGBT Center of Central PA has purchased a permanent home on a prominent Harrisburg street.
Last month, the organization bought a commercial-style building at 1323 N. Front St., near the corner of Verbeke Street, for $255,000 from DMI55 Enterprises LLC, according to Dauphin County sales data.
In a press release, the LGBT Center stated that it will officially move into the 3,000-square-foot space this fall, following renovations. Improvements will include making the space fully ADA accessible, expanding the lobby and community room, and installing a full kitchen, according to the organization.
“This is especially meaningful for us because it is ‘A Home of Our Own,’ a building that we own, and a permanent space for the center,” said Executive Director Amanda Arbour. “Past experience showed us the importance of having control over our own space. Ownership will also support the long-term financial health of the Center, as we build equity and plan for the future!”
LGBT Center officials stand in front of their new building. From left: Wallace McKelvey, Brad Gebhart, TaWanda Stallworth, Ted Martin, Amanda Arbour.
The LGBT Center was located for nearly a decade in a building on the 1300-block of N. 3rd Street in Harrisburg, but moved out almost two years ago. It since has been operating out of the GLO-Harrisburg building on the 1700-block of N. 3rd Street.
The center serves over 2,000 people each year across Dauphin, Cumberland, York and Lancaster counties.
“Our work at the LGBT Center of Central PA is as important as ever in the face of increasing anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and discrimination,” said Wallace McKelvey, board co-chair. “With the establishment of a home of our own, we extend heartfelt gratitude to all who support our efforts in fostering the health and wellbeing of our community.”
According to the release, the LGBT Center was able to raise 61% of its $350,000 goal during its “quiet” fundraising phase, enabling it to purchase the building. The fundraiser is now in its “public” phase to raise the rest of the funds for the building.
“The LGBT community now has a home where firstly we should rest and recognize the work it took to get us here,” said Ted Martin, chair of the Capital Campaign Committee and one of the founders of the center. “And after we’ve taken that breath, gather everyone together under our roof and plan for the future.”
In the meantime, the center is planning A Home of Our Own “Soft Launch” Event on Friday, Aug.18, from 5 to 8 p.m., at the new building during 3rd in the Burg. Light refreshments and beverages will be provided.
The new LGBT Center of Central PA is located at 1323 N. Front St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit their website. Photos used with permission of LGBT Center of Central PA.
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