Why We Do It
To provide a safe haven where inner-city youth can participate in a comprehensive program that promotes the physical, educational and life skills necessary to prepare and empower them for leadership in their communities and success in their personal lives.
There is a tremendous need, especially for high-risk youth in low-income neighborhoods, for programs that provide activities and support for children throughout the summer. Now, instead of seeing throngs of kids hanging out on street corners with nothing to do but engage in illicit activity, we provide a place where they can engage in constructive activities that contribute to reducing crime and illicit activity, increasing academic performance, and providing life skills to ensure success in school, in the community and in life.
To provide a year-round recreational and educational complex for the enjoyment of the family and friends of the Prince Hall Masonic family as well as the general public.
In June 2003, the Prince Hall Temple Associates (PHTA) engaged a real estate development advisory team led by Stadtmauer Bailkin LLP, including Washington Square Partners and Frank Williams and Partners, Architects, to explore options for increasing the revenue potential of its property, located in Roscoe, NY (the Property) about two hours outside of New York City. The expenditures required for this Report were paid in part by a grant of $50,000 by the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC). The teams task was to develop a plan for use and development pursuant to PHTA economic, social and environmental goals as set forth below:
- Increase the short and long-term revenue generation as the property currently produces little, if any, net operating income.
- Maintenance of ownership by PHTA.
- Maximization of the availability of the facilities for the use of the members of the Prince Hall Family, at a reduced cost compared to the cost for utilization of the general public, to the extent feasible.
- Expansion and improvement of recreational facilities of Camp Eureka and year round usability.
- Restoration and re-use of the Dundas Castle as a functional part of the overall property development, such as a conference center open to PHTA and its affiliated organization as well as the general public.
- Development should be socially and environmentally responsible, be consistent with the overall planning, economic development, and community development goals of the local communities and maintain the natural beauty and open space of the property;