Last week, I visited Philly for a wedding. The ceremony and reception were held in the Bok Building in South Philly.
The Bok Building was constructed in 1936 as the Bok Vocational High School, which taught students trade-specific skills like welding, auto mechanics, and culinary arts.
It operated as a school until 2013 when the city put it up for public auction. A company called Scout, which repurposes historic urban buildings for the public good, purchased the building and infused its vision.
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Today, the 340,000-square-foot structure is home to 200+ local small businesses, including 7+ nonprofit organizations supporting the South Philly community. The rent is affordable for nonprofits, and their space is integral to local history.
Most historic schools being auctioned are leveled and replaced with luxury condos or event centers. When Scout took over, they had a vision of preserving and transforming the building into creative spaces that would lower the barrier to entry for small businesses and nonprofit organizations who struggled to pay rent in more traditional office spaces.
The time I spent in this multi-use, historic, collaborative space reminded me how important it is to think big and remain focused on the vision. Communities can be formed in the most unlikely places- like behind the walls of a 100-year-old building and it’s a beautiful thing.
Thanks for allowing me the space to share. If you live in the US, I hope you have a fun and safe holiday.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants