From 1894 to 1966, the Calfee Training School educated African American children in Pulaski, VA. Faced with severe underfunding from Jim Crow segregation, the Calfee Training School became a community, helping children and their families reach their full potential. The Calfee Community & Cultural Center is revitalizing the positive aspects of this legacy by supporting all of Pulaski County’s children, families, and organizations, building a stronger future for the region.
Named for two Pulaski natives and Calfee Training School educators, the early education center revives the school’s legacy by offering high-quality early childhood education and out-of-school care to families from all backgrounds and income levels.
In 1947, 23 brave Pulaski County parents joined Dr. Percy Corbin in a lawsuit against the Pulaski County School Board for better educational opportunities for 54 Black children. This lawsuit helped Thurgood Marshall and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund pave the way for the landmark Brown v. Board of Education (1954) case.
The 23/54 Project honors these brave parents, their children, ancestors, descendants, and all Black families in Southwestern Virginia who have acted courageously to improve conditions for their families and communities.
The project also endeavors to inspire young people to act courageously in the face of present and future injustices.
Programs and Services
The Calfee Community and Cultural Center (CCCC) will have long lasting economic and social impacts felt throughout the region. In the long term, this investment will lead to more businesses and families relocating to Pulaski County, ultimately aiding in the reduction in hunger and poverty rates within the county.
8+
MILLION DOLLARS RAISED
During construction, $8M dollars will be invested in Pulaski County jobs and economic growth. Once operating, The CCCC will house at least twenty regular jobs on site.
100+
CHILDREN IMPACTED
Over 100 children will have high quality childcare, getting them ready for tomorrow. Their parents will have better chances at economic security, and employers will benefit with reduced absenteeism.
10+
NEW BUSINESSES DEVELOPED
New food-based businesses will develop, and local farmers will have more direct year-round access to local customers and businesses. The community will have a space and driver for continual collaboration.
Get Involved
MAKE A DONATION
Calfee Community & Cultural Center is a community engaged and driven organization, backed by community financial support. CCCC welcomes donations of all sizes.
If you are interested in learning more about the Honoring the Past, Planning for the Future Capital Campaign for the Calfee Community & Cultural Center, please reach out to Executive Director Jill Williams at Jill@calfeeccc.org or (540) 509-0808.
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