HALLIE Q BROWN COMMUNITY CENTER INCORPORATED

The mission of Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, Inc. (HQB) is to provide critical human services, promote personal growth and foster community leadership with a primary focus in the Summit-University area of Saint Paul, Minnesota, so as to improve the quality of life for those we serve. In executing this mission, HQB successfully operates a wide variety of programs, which specifically address the critical needs of community residents. Founded in 1929, HQB was born as the result of the vision, commitment and tireless efforts of several community leaders in the 1920’s. It was during this decade that the Saint Paul Urban League was formed in an attempt to address the growing social problems facing African Americans in the capitol city. Under the direction of Executive Secretary Elmer A. Carter, the Saint Paul Urban League provided dynamic leadership at a time when it was greatly needed. Mr. Carter initiated the first formal step in addressing the needs of Saint Paul’s African American community by conducting a survey of possible facilities where critical programs and services could be implemented. HQB has evolved from an independent human services provider to a multi-service center and is the administrative body of the MLK Center, which houses our partners offering specialized services and programs, including the nationally recognized Penumbra Theatre Company. HQB also operates branch service centers at Saint Paul Reformation Church and Sky Line Towers, where we meet the emergency food and clothing needs of community residents.