About Us
Overview
Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. is a beacon of empowerment in Chester, driven by an unwavering belief in the transformative power of arts and culture and a deep love for the community it serves. This leading arts and culture initiative provides a range of programs, resources, and services designed to uplift and enable residents. With a focus on key areas such as Mental Health & Wellness, Business Development & Support, Workforce Development, and Community Outreach and Development, the organization is committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment. Through its purpose-driven approach and clear vision, Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. effectively measures its impact and continuously refines its strategies. As it moves forward, the organization remains dedicated to championing its mission and vision, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those within the city of Chester.
As the Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. surges forward into 2024, we are proud to report a marked extension in our programmatic and service offerings. This expansion reflects our unwavering commitment to the Chester community and our dedication to fostering an environment of growth and opportunity. In the spirit of continual advancement, we are set to unveil these enhancements to the public through our robust digital platforms, ensuring that every resident is informed and empowered to participate.
Recognizing the essential role of our staff in this dynamic phase of development, we have placed an emphasis on comprehensive training programs. These will be meticulously implemented to equip our team with the necessary skills and knowledge to not only adapt to but also excel amidst the increased demands of our capacity building efforts. Our goal is to ensure that each member of our organization is aligned with our core values and is capable of delivering the high standard of service that defines the Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc.
In addition to expanding our programs and fortifying our team, 2024 also heralds the launch of a significant project that marries infrastructure improvement with workforce development. This initiative, aimed at building repairs and enhancements, will be an exemplar of our resourcefulness and creativity. By leveraging the job skills training aspect of our workforce development program, we will not only revitalize our physical space but also provide tangible skill-building opportunities to those we serve.
As we approach our ten-year anniversary, these initiatives symbolize a future where Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. not only stands as a beacon of hope and progress in Chester but also operates at the zenith of its capacity. We embrace the road ahead, fortified by our past achievements and driven by the promise of a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.
Our Program Initiatives
Arts & Culture
The Arts & Culture Program Initiative by the Freedmen's Arts Alliance Inc., led by the visionary Devon Walls, is a beacon of creative empowerment in Chester, PA. This program encapsulates Walls' dedication to fostering accessible art experiences for the community, where art is not just for enjoyment but a tool for personal growth, healing, and connection. The initiative champions a diverse range of artistic disciplines, from visual arts and dance to creative writing and fashion, providing educational courses, vibrant showcases, and engaging community events. It's a hub that celebrates and revitalizes the arts, cultivating a space where creativity flourishes and enriches lives, aligned with Walls' profound belief in the transformative influence of the arts.
Mental Health & Wellness
Our Mental Health and Wellness initiative is dedicated to providing affordable and accessible mental health resources in Chester. Our programs are designed to encourage participation and cater specifically to the needs of the Black community, which represents 75% of Chester's residents. We address the critical issue of mental health treatment disparities among people of color by offering innovative workshops and support groups that combine traditional therapies with artistic and mindfulness practices. These are aimed at promoting personal development and overall well-being. Our commitment to continuous evaluation ensures the effectiveness of our approaches. By listening to the community, we adapt to meet their expressed needs. Our goal is to empower individuals, which in turn will lead to the advancement of the entire community.
Small Business Support
Spearheaded by James Turner, past leader of the Chester SBA, we're excited to unveil an all-encompassing educational series crafted to endow neighborhood business minds with the tools they need for optimal organization and growth.
Our initiative doesn't stop at mere education; it extends to hands-on training sessions and expert mentorship to steer companies towards financial health and grant qualification. We're committed to ongoing mentorship, including expert advice on navigating the complexities of government contract acquisition, aiding entrepreneurs in proposal development and in understanding the key elements of winning bids, positioning them for triumph.
We're on a mission to cultivate a thriving local market by fortifying the ambitions of budding entrepreneurs and established small business proprietors. Our vision transcends that of a simple education provider; we aspire to be a steadfast ally in their entrepreneurial voyage.
History & Impact
Learn The History
Officially established in 2016 by Chester native, visionary and community advocate, Devon Walls, Freedmen’s Art Alliance Inc. is an initiative deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage left by his late uncle, William Dandridge Jr. known affectionately as Chester's "King of Arts & Culture.” Bill Dandridge's legacy and influence leveraged the transformative power of Arts & Culture, while admirably championing for the civil rights of Black people. Leaving a significant impact throughout Delaware County, with a reach that extended as far as Senegal Africa. The late King of Arts &Culture served as a beacon of cultural pride and advancement, solidified by his effective community empowerment. It is with great pride and admiration that Devon instinctively upholds the legacy and passion that were instilled in him at a very young age The inception of Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. was catalyzed by a solemn vow Devon made to his mother and uncle: to gain ownership of a significant piece of Chester's landscape, the 500 block on Avenue of the States. This was a pledge laden with historical significance, representing a reversal of the injustices of a time when Black ownership in the area was not only unheard of but met with outright animosity. Devon's resolve was fueled by an intimate knowledge of Chester's history and a desire to honor the legacy of those who fought and died for racial and social justice. Prior to establishing Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc, Devon leveraged his philanthropic energies to support local organizations, garnering various successes that benefited the city of Chester. While successful in these endeavors, it was clear that his full vision and impact would be best leveraged independently, while ensuring there was still a collaborative alliance amongst the community at large. Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. is the embodiment of that vision, where the arts are not just celebrated but are seen as vital tools for societal rejuvenation and dialogue. Devon began transforming Chester's landscape, acquiring and revitalizing abandoned properties, and rallying a collective of visionaries—from artists to urban strategists—to breathe life into his plans. Drawing from the successes of urban renewal through the arts in major cities, Devon's initiatives seek to replicate that success in the city that shaped him, proving that the same principles of cultural empowerment can flourish in Chester.
Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc.’s impact is resounds throughout the city of Chester, fostering evidenced transformative change. Our targeted initiatives have catalyzed a 65% reduction in crime, a testament to our community's resilience and the efficacy of our collaborative approach. We have championed economic vitality by nurturing small businesses with mentorship programs that fortify their operations, contributing to the economic bedrock of our neighborhood. Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. interventions have also broadened the scope of affordable housing, making the dream of homeownership a reality for more residents. Our financial education programs have empowered over 300 individuals with gainful employment, equipping them with the skills to navigate the economic landscape confidently.
One of the most profound achievements is the success of our mental health and wellness initiative. The community's enthusiastic response highlights the profound impact of our work. Devon himself demonstrated the power of vulnerability during The Couch therapeutic workshop, sharing his journey and inspiring a cultural shift in perceptions of mental health therapy. His story encouraged Black men to embrace counseling and enlightened women with new perspectives, sparking crucial conversations and fostering a culture of healing. Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. stands as a beacon for innovation and support, tirelessly seeking new ways to uplift and improve the lives of those we serve. Our efforts over the last eight years have not only met but exceeded our commitment to the community, ensuring that Freedmen’s Arts Alliance Inc. remains an integral force for positive change in Chester.
Get Involved
Join us for our next workshop and learn new techniques from our experienced artists. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, we have something for everyone!