Last week the Hull House closed its doors after 120 years of operation. Based in Chicago, Hull House was not only notable for its social service, but also its incorporation of art, especially theatre arts, into its operations.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-us-hullhousecloses,0,4975233.story
The story of its end is both a reflection of the current economic crisis (in which nonprofits are still embroiled) and the shifting terrain of community development in urban centers. Nonprofits of all kinds must maintain strong fiscal and operational management as well as maintain a continued understanding of their core constituents such that their position in the community is critical. As the social dynamics change, programs and services must change or the organization becomes obsolete. Likewise, with all businesses, if poor oversight is allowed to settle in to the Board or operations, then it will come to an inevitable end.
For those interested in community development or people who have changed the world -- Jane Addams, one of the co-founders, life and her path on the creation and development of Hull House is an excellent study for anyone interested in community development and the complications (policitcal and otherwise) therein.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/site/newspaper/news/ct-per-flash-janeaddams-0129-20120130,0,1917605.story
While unlike, the Neighborhood Playhouse of the lower east side of New York City, Hull House's theatre was never a core activity but it still served a critical role in Hull House's frameworks for success.
http://www.jstor.org/pss/3207448
No comments:
Post a Comment