The Massachusetts Association of
Community Development Corporations

• About MACDC
• Annual Reports
• 2009 Report
• Mel King Institute Launch

This past spring, MACDC hosted with our partner LISC a celebration at the Villa Victoria Cultural Center in the South End of Boston to launch The Mel King Institute for Community Building. The event honored Mr. King, and his contributions as leader, activist, educator, and former state representative. The evening was full of reflection, entertainment and inspiration.  The hall was crowded with folks from all walks of the community development field including MACDC partners and sponsors, elected officials, CDC staff and board members, leaders and students. 

 

The Mel King Institute for Community Building fosters vibrant and thriving Massachusetts communities by advancing the skills, knowledge and leadership ability of professional practitioners and volunteer leaders in the community development field. By leveraging collaborative educational partnerships, the Institute will increase access, encourage innovation, and promote and institutionalize systemic success. 

 

The setting was particularly appropriate since the South End was the site of many fights for affordable housing throughout Mel King’s long, and continuing, career.  The Cultural Center itself was slated for demolition until it was purchased and became an event venue owned by one of our oldest members, IBA. It is a cutting edge multi-functional community arts center whose mission is to promote, preserve and celebrate Latino arts and create dynamic cross cultural collaborations.  Villa Victoria represents the values of Mel King and community development.