Make wishtv.com your home page

Lowe’s to gives old center new life

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — James Wilson stood inside the Hope Christian Center displaying an infectious energy. Just recently, he learned the east side community center would undergo a transformation.

The building is located on the 1900 block of Caroline Avenue, which is considered one of the city’s most challenged neighborhoods. It once housed the Edna Martin Christian Center. In 2013, the faith based multi-service center moved to 37 Place.

After Edna Martin Christian Center moved out the Hope Christian Center moved in. The goal of Hope Center is to empower those living in the community.

However, the center needs work. The hallways are dark, there are noticeable leaks, and the walls are in desperate need of attention.

Despite the backdrop, the center is moving forward to create a space for after school programs, food pantry, and eventually a daycare.

“This is needed, this project is all about empowerment,” said President of Circle Up Indy James Wilson.

However, sometimes to empower someone, you need a little help.

That’s where Lowe’s Heroes comes in.

For years, Lowe’s employees have volunteered their time to help improve the offices of nonprofits and schools in the United States and Canada. The goal of the project is to take a space and make it better. So far Lowe’s Heroes has participated in more than 1,300 projects and contributed more than $1.3 million in materials.

On October 23, Lowe’s Heroes will tackle the Hope Christian Center.

“I think God has answered our prayers and what this project embodies as well as the great partnership of the community center,” said Wilson.

The Hope Center is in need of volunteers to help with the improvements, and to get several projects off the ground.

You can start by calling 317-601-8562 or by visiting Circle Up Indy here.