Cornhill Empowerment Center Begins a New Chapter

Utica, NY – The City of Utica and the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties are pleased to announce the transition of management for the facility located at 230 James Street in Utica, formerly known as the Empowerment Center. Previously managed by the HomeOwnershipCenter, the facility will now operate under the leadership of the Community Foundation and will be reintroduced as the Cornhill Empowerment Center.

For years, the Empowerment Center has served as a vital community space, hosting meetings, small events, and workshops that foster engagement and growth. This new chapter under the Community Foundation’s guidance will enhance the center’s role as a hub for community-driven services, innovation, and leadership, reinforcing its commitment to the residents of Cornhill and beyond.

“Every neighborhood deserves the resources and spaces to thrive,” said City of Utica Mayor Michael P. Galime. “The Community Foundation is an outstanding partner to the City of Utica in this shared mission. We are incredibly grateful for their vision in reawakening the Cornhill Empowerment Center, which will serve as a vital resource for the neighborhood for generations to come. Connecting underutilized spaces to organizations that recognize the community needs and can provide guidance and resources to the people we serve is essential.”

The first event under the new management took place on February 25, hosted by Mid-Utica Neighborhood Preservation Corporation (MUNPC) as a celebration of Black History Month. This event served as an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the contributions of local Black leaders and African Americans in labor. Additionally, MUNPC used this time to introduce Leslie Pasco—the organization’s new Executive Director—to the community. Also, Plans for MUNPC’s upcoming Juneteenth celebration taking place on Saturday, June 21 were discussed.

 “We are grateful to have the City’s support as we begin an exciting new chapter for the Cornhill Empowerment Center,” said Tyler Hutchinson, Business Process Manager at the Community Foundation. “This opportunity reflects our shared vision and commitment to building a stronger, more vibrant Cornhill neighborhood. The center is a beautiful space with tremendous potential to serve the community, and our goal is to maximize its impact. We aim to strengthen its role as a vibrant hub that celebrates Cornhill’s rich history a place where all residents feel welcomed and can contribute, unlocking opportunities for individuals and community groups to thrive and shape the future of their community.”

The Cornhill Empowerment Center will serve as a model for future projects planned in the neighborhood. The Community Foundation, MUNPC, People First, The Collective Impact Network, and the City of Utica are steering an investment of more than $77 million toward the Cornhill Revitalization Project and its longevity over the next 30 years. This includes the anticipated West Street and James Street Impact Centers, which will serve as anchors for this community transformation.

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Founded in 1952, the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties envisions a vibrant region with opportunity for all. In fulfillment of its “Engage. Invest. Lead” mission, the Community Foundation has transformed decades of donor generosity into $150 million invested in social impact initiatives, collaborative leadership and grantmaking. Find out more at foundationhoc.org.

 www.cityofutica.com