415 Walnut Collective

Historical Context
Built in 1907, the historic church building at 415 Walnut Street (also known as the Walnut Street Church, Walnut Baptist Church, and Faith Temple Baptist Church) has served multiple congregations and generations throughout its time. From early pioneers to industry leaders, the shared experiences and historical significance of the Walnut Neighborhood has stood the test of time. The beautiful architecture of the church building represents and celebrates innovation in the railway industry, especially the Railway Roundhouse. Notwithstanding housing segregation, racial tension, and community struggles, this landmark (including its surrounding neighborhoods) represents a catalyst of change and progress for the broader Waterloo community.

Project Background
After sitting vacant for 11 years, a grassroots coalition of local stakeholders, the members of the 415 Walnut Collective, are serving as advocates and ambassadors for preserving, renovating, and reimagining a new use within the preservation, renovation, and reuse envisioning of this important historical landmark. The 415 Walnut Street church building is a treasure in Waterloo due to its historical significance, proximity to the East 4th Street Commercial District, and potential to propel the broader Waterloo community forward.

Mission
To create a hub for literacy and well being through the development of a community learning hub in the Walnut neighborhood.

Strategic Objectives
The 415 Walnut Collective will work toward the following strategic objectives to fulfill its mission and vision:
Assess needs, strengths, and desires of the local neighborhood/community in relation to the Walnut street building.
Activity example: Community surveys or community forums
Preserve the shared histories, memories, and lived experiences of the building and its people.
Activity example: Visioning events, resident interviews
Rethink a new foundation for shared memories by creating opportunities and strengthening capacity for creativity and imagination for the new space.
Activity example: Youth programming
Build a network of stakeholders to focus on literacy, learning, and health for all ages.
Activity example: Strategic partnerships
Promote conversations and actions to improve race relations and dismantle systemically racist structural barriers to literacy, learning, and health.
Activity example: Community events, intergenerational programming
Communicate regularly with the local neighborhood/community regarding all program activities and all findings of data collection efforts.
Activity example: Newsletter and social media presence, community events
Build capacity and gather resources for building preservation and reimagining.
Activity example: Grant writing and other fundraising