Susan Hirt Hagen Center for Transformational Philanthropy

Erie Community Foundation

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CLIENT GOALS

The Erie Community Foundation announced a new grant making program targeting large, systemic problems in the Erie community. The Susan Hirt Hagen Center for Transformational Philanthropy was to be housed in the carriage house situated on Erie Community Foundation property.  Creating synergies between the not-for-profits serving the community was a primary objective.  The ECF also saw this as an opportunity to restore a building that contributes to the historic neighborhood. In addition to renovating and updating the carriage house to reflect the Center’s mission, a connection between the detached carriage house and Erie Community Foundation’s offices was key to promoting collaboration.

SOLUTIONS

The carriage house was transformed by demolishing the existing interior construction.  A welcoming lobby and reception area is surrounded by the Nonprofit Partnership administrative offices.  A technology rich conference room provides a community resource for training non-profit organizations.  An elevated glass enclosed walkway connects the Center with the Erie Community Foundation’s offices.

RESULTS

The results have been outstanding.  A steady stream of events tailored to provide support and enhance the impact of the community’s nonprofit members have been conducted since it’s opening.  This has included a variety of educational/information-sharing offerings (educational workshops, training courses, consultations, help-desk Q&A interactions, Executive Leadership luncheons, etc.).