When Emmet School was shut down in 2013, community organizers sprung to action, partnering, brainstorming, and collaborating on resources and efforts that would help keep this space in the community. Since then, hundreds of local leaders have come together to craft a roadmap for how Austin can lead the change it wants to see. Community leaders have influenced not only the mission and vision of the Aspire Center but also the operations and design projects for the center. As construction continues, nearing the 2025 Grand Opening, the team is grateful for the ongoing support of community members. 

2023 groundbreaking

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2023 Community celebration

Community activists recognized for protesting the 2013 CPS closure at 2023 community celebration | Provided
Community activists recognized for protesting the 2013 CPS closure at 2023 community celebration | Provided

2023 Construction

2024 community engagement

ACT presents Aspire Center updates to AFT Leaders | Provided
Mural engagement workshop led by artist Shawn Michael Warren | Provided
Operations planning session led by ACT & WHA | Provided
Austin residents invited to hard hat tour | Provided

2024 events

JP Morgan Chase press conference with JB Pritzker | Provided

2024 construction

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Historic cornice restoration in progress | Provided
Austin residents Taylor, Starr, and Darren are among the team building out the Aspire Center. | Provided

Anchor tenants at the Aspire Center:

Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC) will provide comprehensive support and skills training for Central Austin’s unemployed, underemployed, and entrepreneurs in search of living-wage careers in high-demand economic sectors. Since 1985, JARC has trained low-income adults in manufacturing and will continue their free on-site skills training at the Center, teaching Computer Numerical Control machine operation, welding, and mechanical assembly.

ACT’s Austin Community Hub will operate out of the Aspire Center and leverage its seamless intake and referral system, powered by the electronic software UniteUs, to connect residents to a coordinated suite of workforce training and social support services offered by over 50 organizations within ACT’s member network.

Westside Health Authority (WHA) has owned the property where the now-closed Emmet School resides since 2018. They will leverage their 30 years of experience while offering services at the Center that include community reentry, youth development, and employment connections. In addition to the Aspire Center, WHA is involved in many efforts that are helping to revitalize and rebuild the Austin community and surrounding areas by leveraging the power of ordinary citizens.

BMO Harris will offer advising services, a walk-up ATM, and conference space to support community members with financial planning and business development.