Building Akron's First
Black Cultural Landmark
A $20M capital campaign advancing intergenerational empowerment, cultural preservation, and long-term economic impact
Capital Campaign
$20M Goal
$450K Raised
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The Legacy Building Project exists to preserve, honor, and elevate the history and culture of the community — past, present, and future.
01 The Project
A multi-use community anchor for Black Akron.
As a community-owned cultural center and museum complex, we create spaces for gathering, learning, and innovation that connect heritage with opportunity.
Through education, entrepreneurship, technology, and cultural programming, we inspire pride, strengthen identity, and empower future generations.
$20MCapital Investment
3Construction Phases
4Pillars
2031Target Completion
02 Impact
A Cultural Engine for Akron
This is more than a building. It is a system designed to preserve history, generate opportunity, and create long-term economic and cultural impact for the community.
01
Cultural Preservation
A permanent home for Black history in Akron — preserving stories, artifacts, and lived experiences while creating a space where culture is documented, celebrated, and passed forward.
02
Economic Empowerment
Designed to support entrepreneurs, small businesses, and workforce development — creating pathways to ownership, income, and long-term financial stability within the community.
03
Innovation & Sustainability
A forward-thinking space integrating green technology, digital access, and modern infrastructure — positioning the community at the intersection of culture and future-focused innovation.
04
Community Ownership
Built with the community, not just for it — creating shared spaces for gathering, leadership, and intergenerational connection that ensure lasting impact and collective stewardship.
Preserve, celebrate, and advance the history, culture, and economic vitality of Black Akron.
03 In The Media
A Movement Gaining Momentum
The Legacy Building Project has been featured across media, civic leadership, and community platforms — reinforcing its importance and momentum.
Channel 5
“Repairing the harm”: Black museum & cultural center initiative gains momentum
Spectrum News
Local organization aims to revitalize Akron’s Innerbelt corridor
Akron.com
AROPI advances plans for Legacy Building Project and community investment
U.S. Congress (OH-13)
Rep. Emilia Sykes recognizes AROPI as Champions of the Week
Akron 200 Forum
Beyond the Innerbelt: Urban Renewal and Black community impact
Akron Hip Hop TV
Terrance Shelton discusses vision behind Legacy Building Project
03 Get Involved
Fund the future of a community.
What your gift provides
$50Community access to cultural programming and public exhibits
$100Expanded access to public programming and community events
$250Preserves one story, voice, or cultural experience in the permanent record
$1,000Supports development of exhibits celebrating Black history in Akron
$5,000Recognition within the cultural center experience
Make a Contribution
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$250
$500
$1,000
$5,000
For individuals, organizations, and partners committed to shaping the future of this project.
Complete Your Contribution $250 →
$10,000
$25,000
$50,000
Legacy Project 2026.
Leadership
Dr. N. J. Akbar
Administrative Lead, Legacy Building Project
Leading a community-driven initiative to establish Akron’s first Black cultural center and museum, focused on preservation, innovation, and long-term economic impact.
Supporting Leadership
View Full Taskforce →
Carolyne Collins
Program Leadership
Angie Higgins
Community Engagement
Terrence Shelton
Strategic Development
Charmaine Thurman
Grants/ Fiscal Management