Case Study: McClure Multigenerational Center

McClure Multigenerational Center
Community Education for All Ages

The McClure Multigenerational Center brings together the Champlain Senior Center and the Burlington Children’s Space in a new facility that allows the two programs to meet increasing needs for child care and senior services in a dramatically improved environment. By co-locating and sharing common areas, equipment and some programming, the two agencies have developed a ground breaking opportunity to meet individual organizational needs for space, while maximizing scarce resources, and are doing so in a way that brings people of all ages together.

In addition to year-round multi-generational programming that allows the community’s youngest and oldest members to interact and participate in a wide range of activities together, the Center also hosts community meeting space for almost 100 organizations and neighborhood groups. From the Domestic Violence Task Force to the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program, the Center has opened its doors to and developed into a true community resource.

In a unique partnership, the Center was developed by the Burlington Community Land Trust as one of the final steps in the major redevelopment of what was formerly a blighted area.

Cross Sectoral Benefits

Environment: The center is a centerpiece in the redevelopment of a formerly blighted neighborhood.

Economy: Long term cost savings is realized by 2 organizations through the sharing of programming and equipment. The center has an estimated 27 paid employees in the different programs.In 1999 $50,000 in contributions and $350,000 in grant funds were generated.

Governance: A model collaboration that includes three organizations and 45 board members representing a wide variety of local businesses and community organizations.

Social: The center promotes the interaction of different age, ethnic, and economic groups. In 1999, 80 community groups used the McClure Center 's building.

"A Vision for the Future" (Available for $30 from contact above).