In the ED Forum, TSNE’s Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Spack reflects on issues facing nonprofit organizations. He invites your ideas and insights in response to his columns. This month’s column highlights the NonProfit Center’s decade of success in creating a shared space for social change.
It was ten years ago, in late December 2003, when TSNE closed the deal to purchase 89 South Street– the NonProfit Center in downtown Boston. The building, owned by an out-of-state pension fund, was about 75 percent vacant at the time, with some suites abandoned virtually overnight by high tech firms gone bust. Our acquisition marked the end of a three-year quest to find a location that would enable us to realize our vision for a physical space to represent and serve as a home for Boston-based social change nonprofits.
Looking back from the perspective of a decade I can say unequivocally that the NonProfit Center has exceeded our expectations. We have a wonderful location, a lovely, full building, a vibrant community of tenants, nonprofit workers and great programming. And most importantly, we’ve remained true to our original mission: to provide stable, affordable rent, foster collaboration and community, and raise the visibility of social change nonprofits locally.
In the coming year, TSNE will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of the NonProfit Center with more events, gatherings and convenings. Look for information by signing up for our newsletter, Facebook and Twitter pages. Thanks to all who’ve made it possible: our board of directors, staff and especially our tenants and the scores of other groups and thousands of individuals who have visited the NPC for workshops, conferences, board meetings and other special events. We look forward to having you with us for the NonProfit Center’s second decade – and beyond.
The NonProfit Center is located in downtown Boston at 89 South Street, Boston MA 02111. Visit www.nonprofitcenterboston.org to learn about the available events and resources.