In a significant development for the local West Side of Saint Paul community, Neighborhood House has been awarded a generous sum of $2.15 million in cash appropriations from the State of Minnesota latest bonding bill. The bill was passed on the final day of the legislative session and signed by the Governor a few days later. This funding will be instrumental in the redesign and renovation of the Paul and Shelia Wellstone Center.

This much-needed investment will revitalize the facility, ensuring it remains a landmark feature and continues to serve the community effectively. Let’s delve into the details of this exciting project and the positive impact it will have on Neighborhood House and the community at large.

Neighborhood House’s advocacy efforts paid off as the organization was able to secure $2.15 million in capital funding from the state. The original bill was spearheaded by Senator Sandy Pappas and Representative María Isa Pérez-Vega. Vice President of Community Center Operations, Shad Klukas, and Current Board Chair, Luis Rosario, played a crucial role by testifying in front of the Senate Capital Investment Committee in March 2023. Their dedication and determination paved the way for this remarkable achievement.

Enhancements to the Wellstone Center:

The Wellstone Center, a cherished institution within the community, requires essential upgrades to continue its legacy of service. The funding will facilitate numerous improvements, including:

• Walk-in Refrigeration in our Food Market: By adding walk-in refrigeration to the food market, Neighborhood House will enhance its capacity to provide essential staples like dairy and protein. Additionally, the extended shelf life of fresh produce will enable the distribution of healthier options to community members in need.
• Expanded Parent and Early Childhood Education Space: The redesign project includes an expansion of the parent and early childhood education space. This will enable Neighborhood House to meet the growing demands for their unique early childhood education programs, providing invaluable support to families.
• Creation of a Maker Space and E-Sports Suite: The Wellstone Center will introduce a Makers Space coupled with an E-Gaming suite. This innovative addition will offer community members access to diverse fields such as science, technology, reading, engineering, arts, and math. Moreover, it will impart essential leadership and teamwork skills.
• Deferred Maintenance: The Wellstone Center will require some repairs and upgrades to some of the main systems of the building. These include chiller repairs, new security cameras, parking ramp water infiltration repairs and upgraded internet capacity.
• First Floor Reconfiguration: The first floor will be reconfigured to enhance youth programming, providing individualized age-appropriate spaces. Additionally, dedicated areas will be created for housing and family center staff to meet privately with participants, ensuring confidentiality and dignity.
• Second Floor Upgrades: The second floor will undergo technology upgrades, resulting in more appropriately sized classrooms for adult education programming. These improvements will facilitate a conducive learning environment for adult learners.
• Redesigned Rental Rooms: The rental rooms within the Wellstone Center will be revamped to better align with the needs of the community. The redesigned spaces will offer increased flexibility and better accommodate various events and gatherings.

Looking Ahead:

Construction for the Wellstone Center’s redesign and reconstruction is scheduled to commence in the Fall of 2024. This exciting endeavor will not only ensure the building’s structural integrity but also provide much-needed technology upgrades, program enhancements, and address deferred maintenance. The transformation of the Wellstone Center will be a testament to the community’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all.

The $2.15 million appropriations awarded to Neighborhood House marks a significant milestone in their efforts to upgrade the Paul and Shelia Wellstone Center. This capital funding will enable Neighborhood House to create a more efficient, modern, and inclusive space that meets the evolving needs of the community. Through enhanced program spaces, innovative offerings, and improved facilities, the Wellstone Center will continue to serve as a vital pillar in the community, nurturing growth, education, and support for years to come.