St. Lukes’ Youth Center Campus

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Breathing life into a neglected, old building can present challenges, but often the outcome proves immeasurably rewarding. Taking on the challenge and seeking such reward, Episcopal Housing Corporation (EHC) is partnering with St. Luke’s Youth Center to improve the Clergy House. Located at the organization’s home base in West Baltimore, the Historic St. Luke’s Campus is a centerpiece for local families, providing youth and family programming for the Franklin Square and Poppleton neighborhoods.

The Historic St. Luke’s Church once housed the organization’s youth programming. However, structural and stormwater management issues forced the group to relocate to a site 10 minutes away. The stress on this program, which provides after-school and summer programs to the immediate community, has been great, necessitating re-scheduling activities and carpool management. This has brought more emphasis on the goal of getting SLYC back home.

Built in 1904, the Clergy House is in good condition to allow for a conversion of the space into a true community center for youth and their families. Classrooms, a library, and computer lab will be built; there is also the potential to bring in case management services for families. Services such as job training, resume writing, food pantry, and tutoring will also be offered.

While the final vision of this project is taking form, the work EHC is providing St. Luke’s Youth Center will enable the organization to plan for its future from a position of strength and grow with confidence.