The Allegheny Conference on Economic Development created the Strengthening Communities Partnership (SCP), as part of its broader 2012-14 Strengthening Communities strategic priority.

     The goal of the SCP is to make long-term, positive impacts in participating communities by concentrating private investment through tax credits purchased by businesses in the PA Department of Community and Economic Development Neighborhood Partnership Program. These investments are complemented with targeted, pro bono professional services that will make redevelopment projects happen in the neighborhoods.

     Thanks to the support of the Allegheny Conference‘s Strengthening Communities Partnership Program, the Fayette County Cultural Trust was able to be a part of the Neighborhood Partnership Program administered by Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development. This six year program brings together three businesses that are able to utilize their tax credits in our local community. The businesses helping Connellsville are TriState Capital, PNC Bank and Somerset Trust Company. Together they have pledged a total of $175,000 each year for six years. Over the past 6 years funding has been used for improvements at the Connellsville Carnegie Free Library, supporting the food pantry at the Connellsville Area Community Ministries and helping to provide free medical care to low income men and women at the Wesley Health Center. There also have been enhancements to city parks, the downtown business district, and improvements in the quality of life for the residents of Connellsville.