KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Urban Alliance, Inc. announced Tuesday that it has purchased the building it has been using as its base since 2015.
Located at 1009 East Stockbridge Avenue, the building previously served the Edison neighborhood and greater Kalamazoo as a United Methodist Church.
Officials with Urban Alliance say that this purchase helps further solidify its commitment of investment in the community.
“This is an ideal location for us as the building itself has been in service to this neighborhood for generations with its history of community service and outreach,” Senior Director of Operations Joe Brown said in a statement. “This space is a foundational location for community gathering and we look forward to carrying on that tradition.”
Plans for updating the building include repurposing the sanctuary to serve as connection space for meetings, events, concerts and more.
“The purchase of this property allows Urban Alliance to expand its services and offerings to the community, both to the Edison neighborhood and Kalamazoo at large,” Brown said. “This gives us the permanence we need and shows that we as an organization are dedicated to long-term impact and service in the community.”
Urban Alliance, Inc. was founded in 1999 with the mission of helping to break the cycle of generational poverty within Kalamazoo.
The organization has since implemented a variety of community-based economic development initiatives, including a workforce development program that connects unemployed and underemployed marginalized individuals to sustainable employment opportunities through pre-employment training, life skills training and coaching.
“Everyone has value and we are working to create an inclusive, openhearted community that welcomes all walks of life,” Brown said. “The purchase of this property will help us continue with our mission and create a safe space for all.”
To learn more about Urban Alliance, Inc., its services, or volunteer opportunities, visit urbanalliancekalamazoo.org or call (269) 348-0978.
