Mission Statement

 

The DeSales Center seeks to create a more vibrant community by providing reliable and affordable program space for nonprofit groups that share that share a similar vision.

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About the DeSales Center

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The DeSales Center is now home to Academics First Child Care Center and Thea Bowman House Child Care Center. The large auditorium is used by not-for-profit organizations for special events.

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History

 

The St. Francis DeSales School served as a grade school, junior high and high school since the laying of its cornerstone in 1931. Alumni recall dances, basketball games, and friendly rivalries made it a hub of activity in a bustling city.

 

When the school closed in the mid-1990's, the building began a new life as an incubator for non profit organizations in need of affordable space to grow their missions thanks to creative vision of Fr. Fred Daley, Sr. Elizabeth Giarusso CSJ, and parishioners at St. Francis Church.

 

When the St. Francis de Sales Parish closed in 2006, the Historic Old St. John's Church became its successor. On January 7th, 2009 the DeSales Center, a holding company of Thea Bowman House, assumed ownership of the building in hopes of continuing the vibrant ministry in the same spirit of those who preceded them. 

 

Website: www.desalescenter.org

 

309 Genesee St, Utica, NY, 13501

Door on Park Ave.