WCDC Community Impact Report 2023-2024 by WilkinsburgCDC

Mission & Vision

At the Wilkinsburg Community Development Corporation (WCDC), we work to drive economic development in Wilkinsburg with an emphasis on strengthening the Central Business District.

We envision Wilkinsburg will be a prosperous, healthy, and inclusive community regarded for its strong business district and neighborhoods, historic charm, convenient location, desirable quality of life, and community pride.

Our work is defined by community input, factbased solutions, and an ongoing commitment to addressing structural barriers to economic opportunity for marginalized residents.

Diversity Equity

We will embrace and celebrate the cultural differences that exist in our community.

We will acknowledge and address structural barriers to economic empowerment, particularly for people who have been marginalized.

Staff & Consultants

Tracey Evans Executive Director

Monica Garcia Director of Community Outreach & Engagement

Gordon Manker Director of Business Development

Moses Workman Director of Operations

Kim Wynnyckyj Director of Economic Development

Olivia Ames Planning & Research Coordinator

Evaine Sing

EKS Solutions, Strong Neighborhoods & Vacant Property

Inclusion

We will welcome and engage deeply with people of all backgrounds and races to create economic opportunity and provide access, especially for marginalized residents.

Measurement

We will track and publish participation and impact data to ensure we are honoring our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Board of Directors

Bud Wise President

Jason Cohn Vice President

Ron Porter Secretary

Michael Lefebvre Treasurer

Aaron Erb

Leslie G. Ledbetter-Patterson

Monique McIntosh

Patricia Pugh-Mitchell

Michael Rose

Brian Sieffert

Stefani Smith

Shawn Thomas

Letter From Board President

It has been an honor to serve as Chair of the WCDC Board of Directors over the past three years. I’m excited to share our 2023-2024 Community Impact Report, which highlights our collective accomplishments. None of this would be possible without the support of our partners, donors, community members, and the dedicated WCDC team.

We continue to celebrate the completion of two major redevelopment projects—the Wilkinsburg Train Station and the Lohr Building. In addition, 20 more projects are in various stages of development, representing a $175 million investment in Wilkinsburg’s future.

The Wilkinsburg Train Station has become a vibrant community hub, hosting events like the Dream City Magic Gala, Wilkinsburg Made Holiday Crawl, the Frank Conrad 150th Birthday Celebration, and the Strong Neighborhoods Resource Fair. Our work also extends to supporting small businesses, as hundreds of momand-pop shops operate in Wilkinsburg, with the WCDC providing resources to help them grow.

Our Strong Neighborhoods Initiative continues to empower residents to revitalize their communities. Since its launch in 2021, we’ve raised $1.35 million to tackle blight and vacancy, while helping residents plan, invest, and restore their neighborhoods.

Programs like Art All Over and our Youth & Education grants have also flourished, with support for local artists and seven grants awarded to groups serving Wilkinsburg’s youth.

As my term comes to an end, I am thrilled to welcome Jason Cohn as the new board chair. His leadership will undoubtedly guide the WCDC toward continued success. I remain committed to Wilkinsburg and thank you all for your unwavering support.

Sincerely,

Bud Wise President, WCDC Board of Directors

By The Numbers

Strong Neighborhoods & Vacant Property

Housing Acquisition, Repair & Preservation (HARP) Program

67 25

technical assistance inquiries

community members and local vendors participated in Wilkinsburg Community Resource Fair

3 $100k

$250k 70 +

Neighborhood Groups initiating blight reduction plans

Homeowners received critical home repairs

raised for each neighborhood paid to local contractors

Youth & Education

7 400 +

Wilkinsburg youth supported

organizations funded, totaling $16,850 in awarded program grants

2023–2024

Business Support

CORE Four participants

entrepreneurs received 1:1 technical assistance businesses received facade grants and completed storefront renovations

Art All Over

234

artist curated exhibitions pieces of artwork sold Wilkinsburg-based artists highlighted

4 4 15 attendees hands-on community workshops held open to the public with 110 attendees

Community Outreach

2,500 +

people engaged through our email communications

3,000 +

1,500+

people engaged through our social networks people attended the Wilkinsburg Made Holiday Show, a partnership with Workshop PGH, that featured 50 Wilkinsburgbased makers and businesses.

Wilkinsburg Train Station

Dream City Magic Gala: A Night of

Celebration

On September 23, 2023, over 200 guests gathered at the historic Wilkinsburg Train Station for the WCDC’s Dream City Magic Gala. Named after Wilkinsburg’s 1906 Dream City amusement park, the event brought its magical spirit back for one unforgettable evening. Guests enjoyed outdoor entertainment, including mesmerizing performances by magician Jon Tai and live music from INEZ and The Homewood Sound Machine. Inside, the beautifully restored station hosted stilt walkers, belly dancing by resident Shivaun Corry, and a delectable spread of food and drinks.

This celebration, our first since 2018, not only marked 15 years of WCDC’s accomplishments but also showcased the completed restoration of the Train Station, a true symbol of Wilkinsburg’s revitalization. The Dream City Magic Gala was a vibrant testament to our community’s enduring spirit and progress.

Wilkinsburg Made Holiday Crawl & Show:

On December 10, 2023, we teamed up with local business and maker space, Workshop PGH, to bring the second holidaymaker market to Wilkinsburg. This event included 50 vendors and hundreds of visitors who enjoyed local goods, holiday decorations, and art made in the community

This year’s holiday market will take place on December 15th at the Wilkinsburg Train Station and Workshop PGH – we hope to see you there!

Community Resource Fair:

The Strong Neighborhoods Committee hosted our 2nd Community Resource Fair in April 2024 at the Train Station. In addition to the Strong Neighborhoods Groups, 19 organizations provided home improvement, financial services and educational opportunities to Wilkinsburg residents.

Frank Conrad 150th Birthday Party:

On May 4, 2024, more than 200 people crowded into the Wilkinsburg Train Station to celebrate the 150th birthday of Frank Conrad., In 1920, tthe Pittsburgh native and broadcasting pioneer, engineer, and innovator developed the transmitter that launched KDKA Radio’s first broadcast at his home just blocks away from the Train Station

StrongNeighborhoods

Mary Miller has lived in her home for 28 years...

“I’m so happy! I didn’t know how I was going to take care of these things, so I prayed about it. I feel like I was blessed. I can sleep now, knowing these worries have been taken care of.”

Our Wilkinsburg Strong Neighborhoods Initiative represents a collection of efforts and programs that provide funds and resources directly to community members who are working to revitalize their neighborhoods.

This year the WCDC funded over $100,000 for each of the three neighborhood focus areasHamnett Place, Park Triangle, and Singer Place

Each group has made strides in implementing their plans for acquisition of new homes, greening and beautification projects, and engagement and advocacy efforts throughout the community.

And the WCDC continued to offer Strong Neighborhood monthly meetings and support to neighborhood groups for planning meetings and beautification projects.

Nicole Mickens, owner of long-time family home...

“I liked being part of the HARP program! It took a great stress off my shoulders. I didn’t know how I was going to afford the needed repairs.”

HARP

Expanding support for neighborhood groups, vacant properties, and home repairs.

In 2022, we began our Homeowner Acquisition, Rehab & Preservation (HARP) Program to focus on owner-occupied rehabilitation of existing housing and most importantly to keep Wilkinsburg residents in their homes and in their neighborhoods.

This year the WCDC secured $400,000 in PA Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Funds (PHARE) from the PA Housing Finance Agency to support our HARP program.

Thanks to this program, 25 Wilkinsburg residents received grants of up to $15,000 for home repairs, including new roofs, windows, doors, porches, and other external repairs. Additionally, 13 residents have received free legal assistance related to wills and estate planning.

Lastly, 31 applications to acquire vacant properties and/or land have been submitted, with three properties successfully acquired to date.

Ruth Boykin has lived in her home for 28 years...

“Healthy communities have clean and well-maintained housing. The HARP program was pivotal in providing much-needed assistance to Wilkinsburg homeowners who want to be a part of a healthy neighborhood.”

BusinessSupport

Core Four Workshop Series

Nearly every day, entrepreneurs walk into the WCDC office seeking guidance. Whether it’s connecting them with local lenders, providing rent rebates or facade grants, or simply promoting their sales and services, the WCDC is committed to helping businesses thrive. One of the most impactful resources we offer is our business training programs, which equip small business owners with the confidence and skills they need to succeed and contribute to the local economy.

Every spring and fall, we host a free, eight-week business training program open to all entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their businesses. Beyond group training, we also provide free, one-on-one consultations and ongoing specialized support throughout the year.

Since 2015, our Core Four business planning course, led by WCDC Director of Business Development Gordon Manker, has been a cornerstone of our entrepreneurial support. This eight-week workshop covers essential research, accounting, and marketing skills, laying a solid foundation for business success.

Unveiling Wilkinsburg’s Hidden Gems: The Interactive Attractions Map

This year, the WCDC proudly launched a new interactive attractions map, designed to showcase the best that Wilkinsburg has to offer. This innovative tool allows residents and visitors alike to explore local restaurants, shops, grocery stores, parks, and more—right at their fingertips.

The map is more than just a directory; it’s a celebration of our community’s vibrancy and diversity. By highlighting local businesses, it provides a valuable platform to boost their visibility and attract new customers, further strengthening Wilkinsburg’s economy.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, our interactive map is your guide to discovering the unique attractions that make Wilkinsburg special. Congratulations to the WCDC team for bringing this amazing resource to life, making it easier than ever to explore and support our community.

Revitalizing Wilkinsburg’s Business District: The Façade Renovation Program

The WCDC’s Façade Renovation Program offers grants of up to $5,000 to help business owners in Wilkinsburg’s Central Business District enhance their building exteriors. By improving façades, the program boosts the area’s visual appeal, attracts more foot traffic, and fosters a stronger sense of community pride. This initiative is key to transforming Wilkinsburg into a vibrant hub of economic activity, supporting local commerce and growth.

Art AllOver

Creating an engaging space for artists, makers, and community members

WCDC launched Art All Over in 2020 following the completion of our Lohr Building restoration, which includes a 1,300 square foot, street-level gallery space at 725 Wood Street. The completion of the Lohr Gallery created a dedicated space to feature artwork from local artists and makers and provides an arts-focused public space in the heart of Wilkinsburg – a longtime goal of the WCDC and our community.

Our 2024 Art All Over season continues with CDCP and FlowerHouse PGH, curating a new series of art shows to feature and support emerging and midcareer Wilkinsburg-based artists and makers and provide a welcoming space for community members to view and engage with local art and artists.

Since 2020, Wilkinsburg Art All Over has hosted 16 artists and welcomed over 800 visitors to the Lohr Gallery.

CDCP produced three shows featuring local Wilkinsburg-based artists, including:

Kelly Lanzendorfer

Wilkinsburg resident, teacher, and photographer who recently opened Eastern Standard Photo on South Avenue. “I develop film and act as a mini film lab,” says Lanzendorfer. “I do everything by hand but also do a lot of education. That’s kind of the core. I love teaching analog methods of taking photos.”

Jasmine Green

A Black visual artist born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. She is self-taught and has been active in her arts practice for over ten years. Green uses acrylic painting as a way to change this issue and shine a light on the Black population of the city.

Lizzee Solomon

Lizzee is a commercial artist, working with businesses to elevate their products and brands using a combination of new and traditional techniques. She is currently an instructor and Board Member at Protohaven in Wilkinsburg.

Youth & Education

Each spring, we host our annual Youth Initiative Mini-Grant Program to provide funds to local organizations that support the academic and civic endeavors of Wilkinsburg youth. We provide grants of up to $3,000 to Wilkinsburg organizations for summer youth activities.

Since starting this initiative 14 years ago, we have supported more than 3,000 youths who participate in summer and after-school programs in Wilkinsburg.

Just this year, we funded seven groups and supported hundreds of youth through our program.

Run/Thompson Run Watershed Association (CRTRWA) and BootUp PGH

Youth-Created Nature Documentary Shorts

Meshwork Press & Workshop PGH

Screen Printing Workshops & Indie Mart Market

Wilkinsburg Athletic Association

Summer Football and Cheerleading Program

Empowering Wilkinsburg’s Youth: A Story of Community, Collaboration, and Transformation

Ethnan Temple, led by Pastor Jerome Hurst, is transforming the lives of Wilkinsburg’s youth through programs that inspire growth, learning, and creativity. With support from the WCDC’s Youth Mini-Grant program, Ethnan Temple launched a vibrant summer initiative, collaborating with local organizations like the Carnegie Science Center and Squonk to offer STEM activities and creative arts experiences for children. For teenagers, a media camp provided hands-on training in video production and graphic design, while the Service Camp engaged young people in community service projects that helped beautify their neighborhoods.

Pastor Jerome’s vision is to continue expanding these efforts, offering young people skills training and entrepreneurial opportunities that will empower them to create their own futures.

Use this QR code to read the full story of Ethnan Temple’s summer program and its lasting impact on the community, or visit wilkinsburgcdc.org.

Young Leaders of Tomorrow Summer Camp Wilkinsburg Youth Council

Summer Enrichment Program

Hope Academy Summer Learning Experience

Chalfant

Wilkinsburg Family Support Center Parent Council

Community Forge

Ethnan Temple Hosanna House

Historic Budget Approval

Key Funding Increases for Wilkinsburg and Beyond

We are excited to announce a significant victory for Wilkinsburg and communities across Pennsylvania! Governor Shapiro has signed a $47.6 billion budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, which includes additional funding for public education, human services, and economic development—and, importantly, expands the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP).

As part of a statewide coalition of community development corporations, nonprofits, neighborhood groups, and private partners, the Wilkinsburg Community Development Corporation (WCDC) helped advocate for this NAP expansion. Thanks to the leadership of Representative Aerion Abney and Senators Gene Yaw and Nick Miller, NAP funding has doubled from $36 million to $72 million, and the investment cap for corporations has increased to $2.5 million.

This expansion is a game changer for nonprofit organizations like WCDC that rely on NAP to fund essential projects. From boosting small businesses to supporting neighborhood revitalization and tackling food insecurity, NAP helps create jobs, generate tax revenue, and build stronger communities.

WCDC is grateful for the support we’ve received through NAP, made possible by our generous corporate sponsors— TriState Capital Bank, Highmark, and Dollar Bank. Their contributions enable us to continue promoting small business growth, driving investment, and leading neighborhood initiatives that make a lasting impact on Wilkinsburg’s future.