Support the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Center at Old Main

Help us preserve a sacred piece of American history. Your generous support will restore the historic Old Main building where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. studied and began his journey toward changing the world.

MLK Center at Old Main

MLK Center at Old Main

Support the restoration of Crozer Theological Seminary as the MLK Center at Old Main.

Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland, PA)

April 2026

Dear Community Partners, Business Leaders, and Visionary Supporters,

We write to you today with an invitation that transcends charitable giving—it is an invitation to be part of something historic. The MLK Center at Old Main is seeking passionate partners to help restore and preserve one of America's most significant landmarks of the civil rights movement.

The Historic Significance: Old Main, located at the former Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, Pennsylvania, is where a young Martin Luther King Jr. studied from 1948-1951. It was here that his philosophy of nonviolent resistance was shaped. It was here that a future Nobel Peace Prize laureate began his journey. This is hallowed ground.

The Vision: Our mission is to transform Old Main into a vibrant community hub that honors Rev. Dr. MLK Jr. and researches U.S. Civil Rights history through exhibits, educational programs, nonprofit workspace, healthcare services, and youth leadership initiatives.

Why Your Support Matters: This project goes beyond bricks and mortar. By supporting the MLK Center at Old Main, you are investing in education, community healing, economic revitalization, and Dr. King's enduring legacy.

We invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you represent a local business, a Fortune 500 corporation, an educational institution, or as an individual with a passion for civil rights history, there is a place for you in this mission. Enclosed you will find our Support & Sponsorship Opportunities with giving levels starting at $250. Every contribution brings us closer to realizing this dream.

We would be honored to discuss partnership opportunities with you. Please reach out to schedule a conversation or simply learn more about this transformative project.

Thank you for your consideration and your commitment to preserving history.

With gratitude and hope,

Janet Lloyd Murphy

267-368-4548

Shakia Gordon-Hutt

Executive Secretary

MLK Center at Old Main

310-927-9375

[email protected]

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Scan to visit our website:

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mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Support & Sponsorship Opportunities

Your generous contribution helps preserve history and honor Dr. King's legacy.

Supporter $250
Friend $500
Champion $1,000
Benefactor $2,500
Patron $5,000
Visionary $10,000+

All sponsors receive acknowledgment & invitation to our Sponsorship Recognition Dinner

Partner With Us

Interested in supporting? Whether you'd like to donate a different amount, contribute in another way, help with building and restoration, establish an ongoing sponsorship, or explore partnership opportunities—we want to hear from you.

Ready to Make History?

Join us in preserving the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for generations to come.

Donate Today
MLK Center at Old Main

MLK Center at Old Main

Support the restoration of Crozer Theological Seminary as the MLK Center at Old Main.

Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland, PA)

April 2026

Dear Store Manager/Community Relations Director,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Shakia Gordon-Hutt, and I serve as the Executive Secretary for the Old Main and Friends Committee, an initiative dedicated to preserving and restoring the historic Old Main building located in Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland)—once home to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during his formative years at Crozer Theological Seminary.

Our committee is actively working to reopen Old Main as the MLK Center at Old Main, a space that will serve as a hub for education, diversity, community engagement, and leadership development. Through this effort, we aim to create a lasting impact by honoring history while fostering opportunity for future generations.

We currently host monthly committee meetings, often held at Swarthmore College, where we bring together local mayors, leaders, and residents to discuss progress, share resources, and build momentum for this important project.

As our initiative continues to grow, we are seeking partnerships with community-minded businesses such as yours. We would be grateful for your support in the form of:

  • Gift cards for refreshments
  • Food or beverage donations for monthly gatherings
  • General sponsorship or partnership support

Your generosity would help us continue creating a welcoming and engaging environment for our attendees while advancing a meaningful, community-centered mission.

In return, we are pleased to recognize your business as a valued community partner through:

  • Acknowledgment during our meetings
  • Recognition on our website and promotional materials
  • Opportunities for ongoing partnership visibility within the community

We are proud to be working in partnership with the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, which serves as our fiscal sponsor for donations and helps ensure transparency and accountability in our fundraising efforts.

I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you further about how we can collaborate. Thank you for considering this request and for your continued support of community-driven initiatives.

Warm regards,

Janet Lloyd Murphy

267-368-4548

Shakia Gordon-Hutt

Executive Secretary

MLK Center at Old Main

310-927-9375

[email protected]

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Scan to visit our website:

QR Code for MLK Center at Old Main website

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

MLK Center at Old Main

MLK Center at Old Main

Support the restoration of Crozer Theological Seminary as the MLK Center at Old Main.

Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland, PA)

April 2026

Dear Executive Name / Corporate Giving Team,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Shakia Gordon-Hutt, and I serve as the Executive Secretary for the MLK Center at Old Main, a transformative initiative dedicated to preserving and restoring the historic Old Main building located in Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland)—where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. studied during his formative years at Crozer Theological Seminary.

The MLK Center at Old Main is being developed as a dynamic hub for education, leadership, diversity, and community engagement. This initiative represents a powerful opportunity to honor history while building a future grounded in equity, access, and innovation.

We are inviting a select group of forward-thinking organizations to join us as Founding Corporate Partners through a $20,000 pledge, with opportunities for continued and expanded partnership.

Founding Partner Recognition & Benefits:

  • Prominent recognition on our official website and across digital promotional materials
  • Featured acknowledgment at events, programs, and future grand opening initiatives
  • Partnership opportunities for future programming, activations, and community engagements
  • Exclusive access to private tours, project updates, and behind-the-scenes development milestones
  • Invitations to VIP experiences, including our MLK Center Acknowledgment Event and sponsor appreciation engagements
  • Honorary recognition as a founding supporter of the MLK Center at Old Main

Your contribution will support the advancement of all initiatives outlined on our platform, including restoration efforts, community programming, fundraising development, and key activities that bring this vision to life—such as building walkthroughs, inspections, and special engagement events.

We are proud to operate in partnership with the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, which serves as our fiscal sponsor and ensures transparency and accountability in all contributions.

By aligning with the MLK Center at Old Main, your organization will be supporting a legacy rooted in the history of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while contributing to meaningful, long-term community impact.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this partnership further and explore how it can align with your organization's philanthropic and community engagement goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Warm regards,

Janet Lloyd Murphy

267-368-4548

Shakia Gordon-Hutt

Executive Secretary

MLK Center at Old Main

310-927-9375

[email protected]

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Scan to visit our website:

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mlkcenteratoldmain.org

MLK Center at Old Main vision statement with building illustration and community development goals
MLK Center at Old Main

MLK Center at Old Main

Support the restoration of Crozer Theological Seminary as the MLK Center at Old Main.

Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland, PA)

April 2026

Dear [Company Name/Professional Name],

I hope this message finds you well.

On behalf of the MLK Center at Old Main, located in Chester, Pennsylvania on the border of Upland, we are reaching out to respected professionals in construction, restoration, engineering, electrical, and HVAC services to support a project of deep historical and community significance.

We are actively working to preserve and restore the former Crozer Theological Seminary—known as "Old Main"—into the MLK Center at Old Main, a revitalized, mixed-use community space. The center will include entrepreneurship programs, workforce development initiatives, healthcare and auxiliary medical services, medical research opportunities, and a museum dedicated to Civil Rights history, serving as a hub for education, innovation, and community impact. This building holds national importance, as it is where Martin Luther King Jr. studied and helped shape ideas that transformed the Civil Rights Movement.

To advance this effort, we are seeking committed industry partners who are willing to contribute their time, expertise, and resources to support the restoration process.

We are currently requesting:

  • Volunteer manpower (a set number of hours your team can commit or a dedicated project through completion)
  • Licensed and permitted professionals who can assist in compliance-based work
  • Donated or discounted materials and supplies
  • Free estimates, inspections, and professional evaluations
  • Support across construction, structural engineering, electrical systems, HVAC, and restoration services

Your involvement—whether through direct labor, consultation, or material support—will play a vital role in bringing this historic landmark back to life.

In appreciation of your contribution, all participating companies and professionals will receive:

  • Honorable recognition as a project supporter
  • Inclusion in promotional materials and official website acknowledgments
  • Recognition at project milestones and media features
  • An invitation to our exclusive Sponsor Recognition Banquet
  • A Private VIP Tour invitation for the Grand Opening of the MLK Center at Old Main

Additionally, upon the building's reopening, we will offer:

  • Opportunities to partner in trade and workforce development programs, helping train the next generation of skilled professionals
  • Long-term partnership opportunities tied to entrepreneurship programming, healthcare initiatives, and community services
  • Ongoing sponsorship and recognition opportunities connected to future events, exhibitions, and programming within the center and museum

This is more than a restoration project—it is an opportunity to be part of a lasting legacy that uplifts community, preserves history, and creates pathways for economic growth, healthcare advancement, and education.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss how your organization can get involved. Please feel free to contact us directly at your convenience.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and commitment to community impact.

Sincerely,

Janet Lloyd Murphy

267-368-4548

Shakia Gordon-Hutt

Executive Secretary

MLK Center at Old Main

310-927-9375

[email protected]

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Scan to visit our website:

QR Code for MLK Center at Old Main website

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

MLK Center at Old Main

MLK Center at Old Main

Support the restoration of Crozer Theological Seminary as the MLK Center at Old Main.

Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland, PA)

April 2026

Dear Vendor/Business Owner,

We are excited to invite you to participate as a featured vendor at an upcoming community event supporting the MLK Center at Old Main, a historic restoration initiative located in Chester, Pennsylvania, on the borderline of Upland.

The building, formerly known as the Crozer Theological Seminary, holds deep historical significance. It is where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. studied from 1948 to 1951 and developed many of the ideas that helped shape the Civil Rights Movement. Today, our mission is to preserve and restore this landmark into a vibrant, mixed-use space that will serve the community through educational programs, healthcare support services, a history museum and research center, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

We are currently planning a community event (date to be announced) to raise awareness and funds for this important project, and we would love for you to be a part of it.

Vendor Participation Details

  • Vendor/Food Truck Fee: $250
  • This fee also serves as a pledge contribution toward the restoration and development of the MLK Center at Old Main

Vendors will have the opportunity to:

  • Set up a food truck, table, or display area
  • Sell products and/or distribute flyers and promotional materials
  • Engage directly with the community
  • Showcase your business to attending media outlets and news coverage

Please note that vendors are responsible for bringing their own setup, including tables, tents, equipment, and supplies.

Additional Benefits

  • Exposure through media coverage and press attendance
  • Opportunity to be featured in event promotions and marketing materials
  • Recognition on our official website
  • Invitation to participate in our Donor Recognition Banquet
  • Priority consideration for future events and partnerships

Your participation is more than just a business opportunity—it's a chance to support a meaningful cause while gaining visibility and connecting with the community.

If you are interested in participating, please respond to this letter or contact us directly for additional details and to reserve your space.

We look forward to partnering with you to make this event impactful and successful.

Warm regards,

Janet Lloyd Murphy

267-368-4548

Shakia Gordon-Hutt

Executive Secretary

MLK Center at Old Main

310-927-9375

[email protected]

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Scan to visit our website:

QR Code for MLK Center at Old Main website

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

MLK Center at Old Main

MLK Center at Old Main

Support the restoration of Crozer Theological Seminary as the MLK Center at Old Main.

Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland, PA)

April 2026

Dear Museum Director / Curator,

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out on behalf of the MLK Center at Old Main, a historic preservation and community redevelopment project located in Chester, Pennsylvania, on the borderline of Upland.

The building, formerly known as the Crozer Theological Seminary, is of profound historical importance. It is where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. studied from 1948 to 1951, helping shape the ideas that would later influence the Civil Rights Movement. Our mission is to restore and reopen this landmark as a community-centered facility that will serve the public through education, medical research, a civil rights museum, entrepreneurship, trade programs, and healthcare services.

As we begin the process of restoration and planning, we are seeking to build meaningful partnerships with respected institutions such as yours to help preserve, protect, and properly steward historical items and materials connected to the site.

Areas of Potential Collaboration

We would greatly value your support and expertise in the following ways:

  • Pre-evaluation of historical items and artifacts within the building
  • Guidance on preservation, restoration, and archival best practices
  • Assistance with temporary holding or safekeeping of items during the renovation process (if applicable)
  • Advisory support on developing our future civil rights museum and research space

Fundraising & Community Engagement Opportunity

We would also welcome the opportunity to collaborate on a joint fundraising event or program to support the restoration of Old Main. This could include:

  • A hosted or co-branded museum event or exhibit
  • A fundraiser or awareness event highlighting the historical significance of the site
  • Opportunities to educate the public while supporting preservation efforts

Why This Partnership Matters

This project represents a rare opportunity to preserve a site directly connected to the early life and academic journey of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. With your partnership, we can ensure that the integrity, history, and cultural value of this space and its contents are honored and protected for future generations.

In recognition of your support, partners will receive:

  • Acknowledgment on our website and promotional materials
  • Recognition at our Donor Recognition Banquet
  • Invitation to a Grand Opening Day VIP Special Tour
  • Opportunities for ongoing collaboration and visibility within the project

We would be honored to explore how we can work together to preserve this important legacy. Please feel free to contact us at your convenience to discuss this opportunity further.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and continued commitment to preserving our shared history.

Warm regards,

Janet Lloyd Murphy

267-368-4548

Shakia Gordon-Hutt

Executive Secretary

MLK Center at Old Main

310-927-9375

[email protected]

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Scan to visit our website:

QR Code for MLK Center at Old Main website

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

MLK Center at Old Main

MLK Center at Old Main

Support the restoration of Crozer Theological Seminary as the MLK Center at Old Main.

Chester, PA (on the borderline of Upland, PA)

April 2026

Dear Design Professional / Business Owner,

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out on behalf of the MLK Center at Old Main, a historic restoration and community redevelopment project located in Chester, Pennsylvania, on the borderline of Upland.

This building, formerly known as the Crozer Theological Seminary, is where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. studied from 1948 to 1951. It holds deep historical significance, and our goal is to restore and reopen it as a dynamic, mixed-use facility that will serve the community through education, medical research, a civil rights museum, entrepreneurship, trade programs, and healthcare services.

While we are currently in the early stages of restoration and fundraising, we are preparing ahead for the next phase of the project, which will involve interior planning, furnishing, and design.

Why We're Reaching Out Now

We are beginning to connect with individuals and businesses who may be interested in being part of this upcoming phase. We are looking to build relationships with:

  • Interior designers and design consultants
  • Furniture stores and showroom representatives
  • Home décor and furnishings providers
  • Workspace, office, and community space planners
  • Creative professionals with an eye for layout, style, and functionality

Future Opportunities to Get Involved

As we move into the design phase, we anticipate opportunities for:

  • Design input and space planning consultations
  • Assistance with paint selection, wall finishes, and layout concepts
  • Furniture selection and sourcing
  • Potential donation of time, services, or materials
  • Partnerships with stores or suppliers willing to contribute or collaborate

At this time, we are simply looking to connect, build relationships, and identify those who may be interested in supporting or participating when we reach this stage.

Benefits of Participation

Those who partner with us will have the opportunity to:

  • Be part of a historically significant restoration project
  • Receive recognition on our website and promotional materials
  • Be acknowledged at our Donor Recognition Banquet
  • Gain exposure through media coverage and community events
  • Be invited to a Grand Opening Day VIP Special Tour
  • Build long-term partnerships tied to a meaningful and impactful initiative

We welcome the opportunity to stay in touch and keep you informed as the project progresses into this phase.

Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to potentially working together in the near future.

Warm regards,

Janet Lloyd Murphy

267-368-4548

Shakia Gordon-Hutt

Executive Secretary

MLK Center at Old Main

310-927-9375

[email protected]

mlkcenteratoldmain.org

Scan to visit our website:

QR Code for MLK Center at Old Main website

mlkcenteratoldmain.org