In the fall of 2013, The Common Place (TCP) was initiating the process of development into a non-profit organization serving the children and families of SW Philadelphia. At this time, the building had no heat, a leaky roof, no drainage, and a plethora of other issues that required correction before programs could be put into place. Over the past seven years, I have led a fabulous team to develop strategy, renovate the facility, hire staff, put systems in place, raise funds, develop programs, and the many other facets necessary to enable TCP to fulfill its mission.
I am pleased to share that the TCP organization has now passed through its formative years and is ready to take its next step in service to the SW Philadelphia community. As my gifts lie in the many aspects surrounding the start-up and development of organizations, I feel that my work at The Common Place has been accomplished. None of it would have been possible without consistent prayer and God’s providence.
Since our inception, I have been blessed to work with Reverend Chris Holland, pastor of the New Spirit Community Church (now Salt & Light). This church had possession of the TCP facility before it was developed, and our renovations enabled the congregation to again worship in our beautiful sanctuary. Over the years, Chris impressed me and the TCP board of trustees with his business acumen, leadership capabilities, and connection to the community. It has been clear that Chris is best suited to succeed me as the Executive Director of The Common Place and he will do so effective January 1st, 2021. I fully endorse his capability to move TCP to the next step in the development of The Common Place organization and I am excited to see what lies ahead.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the TCP board of trustees, the TCP staff, our many volunteers, our donors, our children, our friends, our families, and all in the TCP constituency that participated in making it what it is today. As we all know, none of it would have been possible without God who makes all things possible!
Peter W. Grim
